I have to say that I spread the rear triangle on my nishiki international and there is an obvious bend on the drive side seatstay just below the bridge. I also say a beautiful old phillips, same thing. While this is probably not such a big deal, if you were to do it to a more collectible Italian frame I would think that you instantly lost your resale value if you got that noticeable bend. There are lots of lugged frames out there with 128 o 130mm spacing though.

I have a 1984 trek 720 tour bike that will eventually have mostly new components.

Starting with a new handle bar, stem, brake levers. Then maybe new crank, and after that, spread the rear triangle and put a 9 speed back there.

The frame is the best part of this bike, the rest is ok, but could be better.

Oh my God, it is my bike. How did that happen? :D And is that blood on it? How the heck did you manage to bleed on my bee-yoo-tee-fool Paramount, B-man?:p


As for the bag, it's a Banana Bag from Duluth Bags by way of Rivendell. I like it a lot. I carry a fair amount of stuff (multiple tubes, patch kit, tire levers, chain tool - yes, I've needed one on the road before - allen wrench set and a small crescent wrench) and still have tons of room in case I want to toss in arm/leg warmers, a rain cape, the clown who tossed my rig in the dumpster . . . you know, extra stuff.

The thought occured to me that if you ditched that steamer trunk attached to your saddle, you might be able to go faster than 10mph..... :D :D

That's a painful photo...

;)

-Kurt

I ordered the VO bag yesterday because it was a good price and I had a really great experience with my first order from them. I hate going somewhere and having to take a bag because I want to take some tools my wallet, spare tube, maybe a rain jacket/windbreaker and a snack. I am hoping this bag will solve that problem and I will be able to enjoy a nice 60-100km day rides without having to wear a messenger bag. All but one of my bikes are not suited for racks so this seems like a very elegant solution.

or 2 X 4's or grit blasting/powder coating :P

I'm always of the opinion that the seat, bars/levers and pedals should be made more friendly to the body. then you will enjoy the ride more