Full Res 1
Full Res 2
Full Res 3
I attached Little pics. the three links go to big ones (3+MP)
Just wanted to show some of my updates. Obviously I get to park indoors at work and don't leave it in front of stores or theatres in bad 'hoods. I've been adding some eye candy and I love the new look.
I changed from the brooks pro (that I hated) to a champ flyer (which I love). The dark brown brooks leather is beautiful.
I spent 2hrs sewing on the bar covers to match and love the result (although my next upgrade is gonna be some noodles and, next time, doing the leather with a bit of padding under it, the leather isn't as cushion-y as cork).
I love the ride and handling of the new Big Apple tires, but they are borderline too-big for the Cross Check frame. I had to run my rear fender
over the brake bridge, and the front fork only has 2mm clearance at the sides (although they fit nicely vertically even with the fender). I wish I had bought the Marathon supreme 40s (those are 700x48c big apples). Toe clearance in the front is an issue with the big apples too. I really do need to go a bit smaller,,, sigh.
The wald baskets are coming off soon. I recently bought em but they are so heavy, you would really need to lift them to believe it. They are a great accessory and I have used them a bunch, but wow they are heavy. I'm going back to the nearly-as-nice nashbar townie baskets.
The two leg kickstand is worth the extra weight. It is great for loading groceries in the baskets, or a screaming kicking kid in the trailer (
I don't want to go home yet 
, god that kid is spoiled)
The ring lock is an unnecessary convenience. I love it but I could live without it. It is so awesome to be able to flick a lever and immobilize the bike rather than mess with the u-lock. I often stop at playgrounds, scenic rests, convenience stores and only use the ring lock. It is car-lock-convenient for short trips or when you are close but not next to the bike. It's a keeper.
My small Acorn saddle bag is perfect for a pump, tool kit, and wallet/snacks. It is the perfect size bag and adds a touch of had-crafted class to the ride.
My favorite new accessory are my wood fenders. I got them from Cody Davis' "woodys fenders" store on ebay. They are perfect. Light. Quiet. and
BEAUTIFUL. I am in love with them!
Besides a nitto noodle bar, and slightly smaller tires; I would really love to get a dyno front hub once there are some brighter LED options for them. The fact that I am never satisfied with this bike is proof that I can never be satisfied with this bike. I am hopeless.