I don't know if my steel Stumpjumper could be called a classic, but it's old, rigid and you sure don't see many out on the trail. The frame is a '93 Specialized Stumpjumper with a Tange rigid fork. I set it up with mostly old Shimano Deore LX components. I did add newer Tektro cantilever brakes. They are way easier to set up than the old Shimanos and they stop better too. I could not resist the Ringle peace sign cable hangers, as I always lusted after them when I was young. My other favorite piece is the Deore DX top mount shifters. I've had the same set on three different bikes now and they never break or wear out. I leave them in friction mode and they shift better than many index levers. The whole bike weighs in at exactly 26 pounds: not bad for an old bike.

The ride is everything I wanted. Fast and stiff on steep climbs and brain rattling on descents. It's quick enough for me, though, and doesn't beat you up as much as some full suspension fans might think.

Thanks for the great web site,

Dan Renke

catfishdan@verizon.net