Here's the latest incarnation of my Swift;



I have just fitted a pair of Schwalbe Marathon Plus tyres and am very impressed with the ride they give and the puncture resistance they offer. I have had to remove the mudguards as the extra width of the Schwalbes made clearances a bit on the tight side and having a full mudguard at the back made removing the rear wheel more of a chore than it should have been. I am on the lookout for some clip on (mountain bike style) mudguards that will not look out of place with 20" wheels.

I have replaced a mini pump with a standard frame fitting model which fits nicely behind the seat tube. It is held in place by three velcro straps. The bottom two straps (around the frame member) are enough to hold the pump but I have used a third strap (around the seat tube itself) just to stop the pump handle rattling.

The "cockpit" now sports Specialized Body Geometry hand grips with Ski type bar ends (bought from SJS Cycles Ebay site for £2.) The computer incorporates a thermometer and altemeter! On the front end the Rixen Kall 'bar bag is held in place by a Rixen Kall "Caddy" bracket which bolts directly onto the stem riser - keeping the bag close to the bike. I have also replaced my toeclips and straps with mini toeclips that do not require straps. I found that when wearing shoes with deep tread soles using clips and straps was not easy. I am even thinking of trying normal flat pedals. I have tried all sorts of SPD pedals and shoes and they all hurt my feet.

All I need now is some time and good weather to ride!!