Yep. You can always tell when I'm at the bar.

Buying used affects price big time. But used doesn't necessarily mean it is a junker. I've only bought used bikes and I commute and exercise daily.

I have an early 80's Bianchi frame that was the on again, off again start of a project bike. I am tempted to build it up sometime, as the geo and size fits me well.

Downside: its ugly, needs a paint job. Would make for a cool winter project I do believe.

Nothing wrong with ugly bikes that ride really nice. (Ever heard of a "sleeper?") They don't attract attention, so probably don't get stolen as often. Now, if you skimp on the components so it's ugly and also a poor performer, that's another story. Those bikes are even less likely to get stolen, and when they do you don't care much. For me, pretty bikes are really fun & enjoyable, but I'd rather have one that rides nice and looks like junk than vice-versa.

I like converting old road bikes as they're cheap and easy and make good, well, ROAD bikes.

Every one I've done has been by removing the big ring, leaving the small ring on the inner position, flipping the rear axle and redishing and slapping on a single speed freewheel. Cost = one freewheel and maybe, if I don't feel like shortening them myself, a set of short chainring bolts and inserts. If I wanna get real fancy I swap the BB for something shorter and run the chainring in the outer position for better aesthetics.

IMO a classic road bike is better looking than a generic "better" IRO or #kilott so they win out in the style realm as well. BB height isn't important to me either, as I personally HATE FG riding on the road so my conversions are all SS. Can we show off our conversions now?

[IMG]
DSC_0036 by tashipeacock1, on Flickr[/IMG]

[IMG]Monterey SL after by tashipeacock1, on Flickr[/IMG]

[IMG]photo by tashipeacock1, on Flickr[/IMG]

[IMG]Tark by tashipeacock1, on Flickr[/IMG]

[IMG]Ken Legge with golf clubs by tashipeacock1, on Flickr[/IMG]