Originally Posted by
Sturmcrow
...Will a Vitesse stand up to out-of-the-saddle climbing? I'm on the larger side of average at 5'11" and 200 lbs. I like the looks of the Vitesse, though the Speed TR caught my eye just now as well...
Somewhat related, can an internally geared bike be converted to belt drive? It seems like it would be pretty straightforward to me, but the pulleys would need to be available or fabricated.
Thor is right, it isn't a good idea to ride out of the saddle but it can be done if you're careful. Try and make all pressures on the handlebar post vertical because it will flex alarmingly otherwise. I do it regularly but it's at my own risk.
I have converted bikes to belt drive but the cost of doing it costs more than the improvement is worth. Budget around $4-500 for a very minor improvement. Once belts become OEM equipment prices will drop dramatically and make it worthwhile.