I recently purchased this aluminum-frame Fuji MTB for next-to-nothing on craigslist in order to convert in to a commuter as I will be mostly riding on paved trails with my kids or to and from work.


A lot of people asked me "why not just buy a road-bike?"


I am only 5'8" so step-over height on most road bike frames is an issue. Also, I am just not used to drop handlebars or the shifter location on road bikes. I have always ridden MTBs so I am just more comfortable on them. The MTB frame is a bit heartier with front shock absorbers so that helps with the unpredictable nature of commuting with the potholes, curbs, etc.


So far I have ridden it to work for about a week with good results, saving $6/day on parking alone.


I am thinking about converting it over to a single-front chainring and only using the middle ring (might as well get rid of all the bits I don't need). Also, I am going to ditch the lousy, worn out Kenda MTB tires for the Michelin Protek tires (in the 26x1.4 size) pictured. Also small stuff like maybe an underseat fender and a set of the strapless toe clips they sell at REI.


The hope is to get a legit commuter for next to nothing - the budgetary constraints are in place because I can't really sell it to my wife that we're cutting down commuting costs if I dump tons of $ in to this project.


Any other hints/tips/encouragement appreciated!!! (And no making fun of the stock Suntour crankset and fork - those are here to stay for at least the next year - the fork until I can decide if I want to upgrade to a nicer Manitou/Rock Shox or go solid carbon fiber ... the crankset I really could care less until it breaks)