Newbie Commuter Conversion
 

Hi everyone,

Looking for some help. I've become addicted to cycling, and I've been looking for a road bike, but unfortunately I just hit a bit of a money crunch (the future of my job suddenly got very, very uncertain). So for now, a new bike is out of the question. I was thinking though as I rode my bike home, and I wondered if I could upgrade my aluminum commuter bike (a Diamondback Century) to be more like a "real" road bike with drop bars in the meantime? I really want drop bars in the immediate future or I fear my tingling hands will stop functioning...

As far as I can figure, to put drop bars on this bike, I'd need to get new brake levers (in addition to the drop bars, obviously). Anything else? Am I way off base? Is this kind of "conversion" possible? I know this bike with drop bars isn't going to make it a top of the line racing bike, but it might whet my appetite long enough to sort the job thing out. Of course, if it's going to cost loads, I'll just deal with the numb hands.

I'm going to visit my LBS (where I bought the bike in spring) this weekend, but wanted to be educated before doing so.

As always, many thanks!

I had a nice lengthy reply but I hit the back button by mistake! DANGIT!

Alright, I think it's a bit of a waste to go for drop bars since you'll have to buy brifters and everything which are expensive. You could get bar end shifters which might work, but you'd be better off looking on craigslist for a used 80's roadie. It'd have downtube shifters, which are a lot of fun and you can make it a beater bike once you have the security to buy a better road bike. Or you could make it a fixie if you're bad@ss like that!

Just maybe... this is a good place to start...

http://www.bikeforums.net/forumdisplay.php?f=20

Apologies shabbasuraj. I do know about the commuter forum. I actually considered starting there, but figured since I was going FROM commuter TO road, I'd post here. Really do appreciate the drama and sarcasm, though.

ridethecliche, thanks for your reply. I was afraid that it would be costly and likely not worth it. I like your idea--I'll check out the local craigslist listings. That really seems to be the best route, given the concern about money right now...

Sarcasm.. you picked it up!!........LOL

Adding drop bars to your commuter will not be cost effective, as they are often the most expensive component in the gruppo...

So.. CL is your friend in this case... buy an older road bike... and go from there... keep an eye out for a strong and quality/sturdy wheelset, that can handle the rigours of daily commutes (like massive potholes that can't be avoided due to traffic)...upgrade tyres to commuter duty ones... add fenders... lights.. etc..


and post pics.. of your find and build...

Appreciate it, shabbasuraj. :)