Which would you keep?
#1
Which would you keep?
And why?
I need to downsize in a big way because of an impending move to a much, much more expensive locale (read much smaller living accommodations). These three bikes all fit and all do essentially the same thing, more or less, so I need to reduce it to one. The plan/hope is to use one of these as a commuter/tourer/gravel grinder. Which would you keep?
1) 1983 Schwinn Voyageur SP - I just recently finished a rebuild on this one to make it something I'd ride more often. I just wasn't a fan of the half step + granny setup. It now has an Ultegra 6503 crankset, 6503 FD, 7900 DT shifters, 36 spoke Mavic MA2 wheels, 11-34 10 speed cassette, and XT long cage rear derailleur. Pretty sweet setup in my opinion. I still have all the original components as well. I had built a dynamo hub into the original front wheel.
2) 2010 Civia Bryant - This thing is super versatile. It can take disc or caliper brakes, has good clearance, tons of braze-ons for just about anything you'd want, split dropout if you want a belt drive, etc. I built it with a 6600 double group, Avid BB7 disc brakes, Thomson stem, Nitto post, 650b wheelset (Velocity Blunt to XT hubs).
3) 2009 Raleigh Sojourn - This was cobbled together on the super cheap and has been my grocery bike for a while. There's a gnarly dent in the top tube but it has no effect on anything. I use it for grocery runs and the like because I figure the dent makes it less attractive. The build is FSA compact carbon cranks, Deore long cage RD, 105 FD, Avid BB7 brakes, 105 9 speed shifters, Bontrager (cheap) 29er wheels. This can go 650b, which I've done, or fat tires on 700c. I was able to fit 45's or so in the past, but currently has 28s. It's a touring bike so it also has all the braze-ons, like the other two. And it rides like buttah.
So, those are your choices.
I need to downsize in a big way because of an impending move to a much, much more expensive locale (read much smaller living accommodations). These three bikes all fit and all do essentially the same thing, more or less, so I need to reduce it to one. The plan/hope is to use one of these as a commuter/tourer/gravel grinder. Which would you keep?
1) 1983 Schwinn Voyageur SP - I just recently finished a rebuild on this one to make it something I'd ride more often. I just wasn't a fan of the half step + granny setup. It now has an Ultegra 6503 crankset, 6503 FD, 7900 DT shifters, 36 spoke Mavic MA2 wheels, 11-34 10 speed cassette, and XT long cage rear derailleur. Pretty sweet setup in my opinion. I still have all the original components as well. I had built a dynamo hub into the original front wheel.
2) 2010 Civia Bryant - This thing is super versatile. It can take disc or caliper brakes, has good clearance, tons of braze-ons for just about anything you'd want, split dropout if you want a belt drive, etc. I built it with a 6600 double group, Avid BB7 disc brakes, Thomson stem, Nitto post, 650b wheelset (Velocity Blunt to XT hubs).
3) 2009 Raleigh Sojourn - This was cobbled together on the super cheap and has been my grocery bike for a while. There's a gnarly dent in the top tube but it has no effect on anything. I use it for grocery runs and the like because I figure the dent makes it less attractive. The build is FSA compact carbon cranks, Deore long cage RD, 105 FD, Avid BB7 brakes, 105 9 speed shifters, Bontrager (cheap) 29er wheels. This can go 650b, which I've done, or fat tires on 700c. I was able to fit 45's or so in the past, but currently has 28s. It's a touring bike so it also has all the braze-ons, like the other two. And it rides like buttah.
So, those are your choices.
#4
Senior Member


Joined: May 2008
Posts: 10,106
Likes: 2,762
From: Fredericksburg, Va
Bikes: ? Proteous, '65 Frejus TDF, '73 Bottecchia Giro d'Italia, '83 Colnago Superissimo, '84 Trek 610, '84 Trek 760, '88 Pinarello Veneto, '88 De Rosa Pro, '89 Pinarello Montello, 'Litespeed Catalyst'94 Burley Duet, 97 Specialized RockHopper, 2010 Langster
2.
Consider parting out and keeping the good suff and sell the rest. That way you can do your n+1 thing after you settle into the new place. It will happen!
I moved to a much more expensive place and now have more bikes than before!
Consider parting out and keeping the good suff and sell the rest. That way you can do your n+1 thing after you settle into the new place. It will happen!
I moved to a much more expensive place and now have more bikes than before!
#5
Mike J
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 1,587
Likes: 9
From: Jacksonville Florida
Bikes: 1975 Peugeot PX-50L, 1971 Peugeot PX-10, 1974 Peugeot PX-8
And why?
I need to downsize in a big way because of an impending move to a much, much more expensive locale (read much smaller living accommodations). These three bikes all fit and all do essentially the same thing, more or less, so I need to reduce it to one. The plan/hope is to use one of these as a commuter/tourer/gravel grinder. Which would you keep?
1) 1983 Schwinn Voyageur SP - I just recently finished a rebuild on this one to make it something I'd ride more often. I just wasn't a fan of the half step + granny setup. It now has an Ultegra 6503 crankset, 6503 FD, 7900 DT shifters, 36 spoke Mavic MA2 wheels, 11-34 10 speed cassette, and XT long cage rear derailleur. Pretty sweet setup in my opinion. I still have all the original components as well. I had built a dynamo hub into the original front wheel.
2) 2010 Civia Bryant - This thing is super versatile. It can take disc or caliper brakes, has good clearance, tons of braze-ons for just about anything you'd want, split dropout if you want a belt drive, etc. I built it with a 6600 double group, Avid BB7 disc brakes, Thomson stem, Nitto post, 650b wheelset (Velocity Blunt to XT hubs).
3) 2009 Raleigh Sojourn - This was cobbled together on the super cheap and has been my grocery bike for a while. There's a gnarly dent in the top tube but it has no effect on anything. I use it for grocery runs and the like because I figure the dent makes it less attractive. The build is FSA compact carbon cranks, Deore long cage RD, 105 FD, Avid BB7 brakes, 105 9 speed shifters, Bontrager (cheap) 29er wheels. This can go 650b, which I've done, or fat tires on 700c. I was able to fit 45's or so in the past, but currently has 28s. It's a touring bike so it also has all the braze-ons, like the other two. And it rides like buttah.
So, those are your choices.
I need to downsize in a big way because of an impending move to a much, much more expensive locale (read much smaller living accommodations). These three bikes all fit and all do essentially the same thing, more or less, so I need to reduce it to one. The plan/hope is to use one of these as a commuter/tourer/gravel grinder. Which would you keep?
1) 1983 Schwinn Voyageur SP - I just recently finished a rebuild on this one to make it something I'd ride more often. I just wasn't a fan of the half step + granny setup. It now has an Ultegra 6503 crankset, 6503 FD, 7900 DT shifters, 36 spoke Mavic MA2 wheels, 11-34 10 speed cassette, and XT long cage rear derailleur. Pretty sweet setup in my opinion. I still have all the original components as well. I had built a dynamo hub into the original front wheel.
2) 2010 Civia Bryant - This thing is super versatile. It can take disc or caliper brakes, has good clearance, tons of braze-ons for just about anything you'd want, split dropout if you want a belt drive, etc. I built it with a 6600 double group, Avid BB7 disc brakes, Thomson stem, Nitto post, 650b wheelset (Velocity Blunt to XT hubs).
3) 2009 Raleigh Sojourn - This was cobbled together on the super cheap and has been my grocery bike for a while. There's a gnarly dent in the top tube but it has no effect on anything. I use it for grocery runs and the like because I figure the dent makes it less attractive. The build is FSA compact carbon cranks, Deore long cage RD, 105 FD, Avid BB7 brakes, 105 9 speed shifters, Bontrager (cheap) 29er wheels. This can go 650b, which I've done, or fat tires on 700c. I was able to fit 45's or so in the past, but currently has 28s. It's a touring bike so it also has all the braze-ons, like the other two. And it rides like buttah.
So, those are your choices.
#6
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 701
Likes: 13
From: So Cal
Bikes: Cimarrons 1835, 0836, 1767, 3517, 0768, 3408, a LHT, and a couple others
IMO, I'd ditch the Schwinn, soley based on your description. It sounds like the other 2 bikes are set up perfectly and they work well. I detect a hint of excitement when you describe them. I got the impression that while the Schwinn is a good bike now, it wasn't prior to the upgrades, and perhaps you still don't "love" it? So there you go...lol.
For the record, I love Schwinn bikes.
For the record, I love Schwinn bikes.
#8
Hogosha Sekai

Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 6,674
Likes: 26
From: STS
Bikes: Leader 725, Centurion Turbo, Scwhinn Peloton, Schwinn Premis, GT Tequesta, Bridgestone CB-2,72' Centurion Lemans, 72 Raleigh Competition
I'd keep the Schwinn, since I'm addicted to old bikes and the other two are just too new....
#9
The civia seems like the bike to keep, but it sounds very similar to the raleigh. Does one fit better or do just like one a little bit better. Sometimes it is hard to get over the fact that a bike is really nice and you keep grabbing the beater so keep the nice in in better shape. As such you build a relationship for the beater and start to love it more because you spend more time with it. Don't forget that. It sounds like the raleigh might be that bike, but it in reality the civia fits better and is finished better you will develop the same relationship over time if the raleigh is no longer with you.
__________________
1 Super Record bike, 1 Nuovo Record bike, 1 Pista, 1 Road, 1 Cyclocross/Allrounder, 1 MTB, 1 Touring, 1 Fixed gear
1 Super Record bike, 1 Nuovo Record bike, 1 Pista, 1 Road, 1 Cyclocross/Allrounder, 1 MTB, 1 Touring, 1 Fixed gear
#11
tantum vehi


Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 4,624
Likes: 1,317
From: Flathead Valley, MT
Bikes: More than I care to admit
I... wha?... you... n+1... don't underst.... 
If guys can make workshops out of closets or boiler rooms, a guy can find a way to take 3 bikes along with him. This was a trick question or troll thread anyway. I mean seriously, sell a bike that "rides like buttah"? No.

If guys can make workshops out of closets or boiler rooms, a guy can find a way to take 3 bikes along with him. This was a trick question or troll thread anyway. I mean seriously, sell a bike that "rides like buttah"? No.
#13
tantum vehi


Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 4,624
Likes: 1,317
From: Flathead Valley, MT
Bikes: More than I care to admit
(psst, [MENTION=149088]brockd15[/MENTION] keep the Raleigh and use it as an excuse to get another bike later: "Honey, this one has a ding in it and might not be safe." Responses by significant other questioning why you sold "safe" bikes before the move should be answered with, "You told me I had to sell some bikes, and I did what you asked.")
#14
Senior Member




Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 21,846
Likes: 5,818
From: Middle Earth (aka IA)
Bikes: A bunch of old bikes and a few new ones
The answer depends on what is the size of the 3 bikes as I may want one of them,
. Tough choice but I'd probably keep the Schwinn since you have it dialed in and it is the hardest bike to replace by a long shot of the 3 you own.
. Tough choice but I'd probably keep the Schwinn since you have it dialed in and it is the hardest bike to replace by a long shot of the 3 you own.
#15
Senior Member


Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 7,955
Likes: 705
From: Port Angeles, WA
Bikes: A green one, "Ragleigh," or something.
Get rid of the Schwinn.
In fact, send it to me.
In fact, send it to me.
__________________
● 1971 Grandis SL ● 1972 Lambert Grand Prix frankenbike ● 1972 Raleigh Super Course fixie ● 1973 Nishiki Semi-Pro ● 1979 Motobecane Grand Jubile ●1980 Apollo "Legnano" ● 1984 Peugeot Vagabond ● 1985 Shogun Prairie Breaker ● 1986 Merckx Super Corsa ● 1987 Schwinn Tempo ● 1988 Schwinn Voyageur ● 1989 Bottechia Team ADR replica ● 1990 Cannondale ST600 ● 1993 Technium RT600 ● 1996 Kona Lava Dome ●
● 1971 Grandis SL ● 1972 Lambert Grand Prix frankenbike ● 1972 Raleigh Super Course fixie ● 1973 Nishiki Semi-Pro ● 1979 Motobecane Grand Jubile ●1980 Apollo "Legnano" ● 1984 Peugeot Vagabond ● 1985 Shogun Prairie Breaker ● 1986 Merckx Super Corsa ● 1987 Schwinn Tempo ● 1988 Schwinn Voyageur ● 1989 Bottechia Team ADR replica ● 1990 Cannondale ST600 ● 1993 Technium RT600 ● 1996 Kona Lava Dome ●
#17
I'd keep the Raleigh because you always need a bike you don't mind beating up and if it rides that nice it's a shame to get rid of it. I'd have a tough time letting go of the Civia, too...so I'd find a way to keep both. I'd sell the Schwinn.
Is it possible to keep the Raleigh locked up and have that one live outside? Taking the wheels off a bike opens up some extra storage possibilities, too
Is it possible to keep the Raleigh locked up and have that one live outside? Taking the wheels off a bike opens up some extra storage possibilities, too
#18
Some good points here guys. The Raleigh is surprisingly smooth, but the others are great also. The Civia, for example, is on Hetres, which we all know are pretty comfortable.
This is pretty much my line of thinking, too. I don't ride the Raleigh more because I like it better, I ride it more because it already has a dent so there's less to lose, in a sense. No doubt I would be equally happy with either of the other two.
Ha, should have mentioned, these aren't the only bikes, they're just three that are redundant. There's also a tandem, wife's two road bikes, wife's two touring bikes, wife's mtb, my two road bikes, and my two mtbs, not to mention framesets, wheels, parts, etc. The majority of which well need to be sold in the coming months.
I could certainly stand to reduce things a bit.
Good question. We have just started looking for places so I don't know how much room I'll have (I just know it won't be as much as I have now). Ironically, the Raleigh has a certain value to it that the others don't, because of the dent.
The civia seems like the bike to keep, but it sounds very similar to the raleigh. Does one fit better or do just like one a little bit better. Sometimes it is hard to get over the fact that a bike is really nice and you keep grabbing the beater so keep the nice in in better shape. As such you build a relationship for the beater and start to love it more because you spend more time with it. Don't forget that. It sounds like the raleigh might be that bike, but it in reality the civia fits better and is finished better you will develop the same relationship over time if the raleigh is no longer with you.
I... wha?... you... n+1... don't underst.... 
If guys can make workshops out of closets or boiler rooms, a guy can find a way to take 3 bikes along with him. This was a trick question or troll thread anyway. I mean seriously, sell a bike that "rides like buttah"? No.

If guys can make workshops out of closets or boiler rooms, a guy can find a way to take 3 bikes along with him. This was a trick question or troll thread anyway. I mean seriously, sell a bike that "rides like buttah"? No.
I could certainly stand to reduce things a bit.
I'd keep the Raleigh because you always need a bike you don't mind beating up and if it rides that nice it's a shame to get rid of it. I'd have a tough time letting go of the Civia, too...so I'd find a way to keep both. I'd sell the Schwinn.
Is it possible to keep the Raleigh locked up and have that one live outside? Taking the wheels off a bike opens up some extra storage possibilities, too
Is it possible to keep the Raleigh locked up and have that one live outside? Taking the wheels off a bike opens up some extra storage possibilities, too
Last edited by brockd15; 11-26-14 at 10:34 PM.
#21
Senior Member


Joined: Jun 2013
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From: 700 Ft. above sea level.
Bikes: Not as many as there were awhile ago.
I'd keep the Schwinn, no logical reason other than I have recently developed an attraction to early 80's Panasonic built Schwinns. Probably because I keep coming across them with 25" frames.
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".....distasteful and easily triggered."
".....distasteful and easily triggered."
#22
tantum vehi


Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 4,624
Likes: 1,317
From: Flathead Valley, MT
Bikes: More than I care to admit
Ha, should have mentioned, these aren't the only bikes, they're just three that are redundant. There's also a tandem, wife's two road bikes, wife's two touring bikes, wife's mtb, my two road bikes, and my two mtbs, not to mention framesets, wheels, parts, etc. The majority of which well need to be sold in the coming months. I could certainly stand to reduce things a bit.
#24
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 307
Likes: 2
From: Mackinac Island, Michigan, USA
Bikes: 1958 Schwinn Deluxe Spitfire, 2016 Surly Cross Check, 1971 BH Folder, 2016 Felt DD10





