Drop Bar Project

Inspired by new tires my old mountain bike has turned into a all purpose, all in one, road/gravel/trail/Greenway/commuter/pull kid in trailer slayer. Check it!

It started out as a hardtail mountain bike (2010). Initial changes, converted to 1×9 and Stan’s wheels. Also a SAVE seatpost.  

I really wanted more hand positions on longer rides. Found a used set of SRAM Rival hydro shifters & handlebars at the bike shop. I had to buy new calipers, rear derailleur, chain and cassette, changing the drive train to 10 speed. 

Known for their flex I swapped to a Fabric saddle. Trying to take the sting out of the aluminum frame wherever possible. Works really well with the SAVE seatpost. 

Sticking with Ultegra road pedals for now. Here’s why. 1- I never really need to put the foot down on gravel rides. 2- Road pedals are way lighter. 3- A better platform for when I want to ride with normal kicks.

These tires breathed new life into this old bike. After several flats on my last gravel ride with 35C tires The Bike Route recommended 40C Panaracer GravelKings. The  extra volume is nice but they still roll fast. Folks, these tires rock! 

Perfect bike for trailer hauling! Kid, cooler full of beer, whatever! 

I still don’t like weight under the saddle on mountain or gravel bikes. This glorified peanut butter container works well for spare tube, multi-tool etc. 

Conclusion

I have dropped some coin on this bike over the last 7  years but I am still using it, still enjoying it and I like to tinker. In fact, it is the bike I use the most at the moment. At 21 lbs it’s not exactly light. But it’s not exactly heavy either. It is on par with many gravel specific bikes that don’t have suspension. This bike is just fun to ride on all kinds of terrain. Okay I know what your thinking. Isn’t this just a Cannodale Slate? Well I guess it sorta is. It is the bike that keeps on giving!