Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 12,286
Likes: 317
From: Lake Geneva, WI
Bikes: Ridley Helium SLX, Canyon Endurance SL, De Rosa Professional, Eddy Merckx Corsa Extra, Schwinn Paramount (1 painted, 1 chrome), Peugeot PX10, Serotta Nova X, Simoncini Cyclocross Special, Raleigh Roker, Pedal Force CG2 and CX2
It's mostly the wheels and tires that take the abuse when I commute in Chicago. I recently bent a Mavic 319a rim. At 235 lbs I require a lot from my bike.
I'm building a Cyclocross commuter based on a Soma Double Cross frame:
http://www.somafab.com/frames.html
The reason for selecting this frame was it's material (it's steel) & it's ability to accept 700 x 38 tires and fenders.
I'm using a 36 spoke "29er" MTB wheelset with Infinity Armadillo Kevlar tires.
As the young people say, "bring it on".
Michael
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When I ride my bike I feel free and happy and strong. I'm liberated from the usual nonsense of day to day life. Solid, dependable, silent, my bike is my horse, my fighter jet, my island, my friend. Together we will conquer that hill and thereafter the world.