Originally Posted by
randyjawa
I read somewhere...
"It can be restored a hundred times but it can only be original once. There is value in leaving the bicycle in original condition. However, if you do not damage (cut off, grind, drill or modify the frame set in some irreversible fashion) the frame set, hang what ever components you want on the bicycle and enjoy the ride. But keep in mind that, someday, you just might want to put the bicycle back into original condition. Or, should you decide to sell the bike, the next guy or gal might want to put it back into "as issued" shape. Why not maintain the option?
+1 I rode my Raleigh as a fixed gear for 25 years, then one day decided to hang the gears back on it. I was very happy to have the option.
[edit] I should add that my decision to switch back to gears was inspired by many of the bikes I've seen posted on this forum, and had nothing to do with feeling like it was somehow wrong to ride the frame as a fixed gear. IMHO, as long as the frame hasn't been maligned, there's no logical distinction between making it a fixed gear or hanging a modern 10-speed drive train and brifters on it.