I'd been wanting to do a 650B conversion and finally came into some wheels locally (used) and then the 80's Takara frame fell into place. It's used everyday as a commuter bike (until the Wisconsin weather gets snowy-nasty and I drag out the snow bike). It ain't the fastest steed on the path, but the ride is smooth... and all the bits came together pretty nice. It's a pleasure to have a 'flat bar' bike that has an upright ride.

Mid 80's Takara Medalist (Ishiwata I think)
Alesa 650B rims
Col de La Vie tires
Brooks B.17 Saddle
Tektro R556 long reach calipers
Planet Bike Cascadia Fenders
Blackburn Rack
Dinotte 200L Light
Velo Orange Porteur Bars
Velo Orange Cheapie brake handles
Carradice Pendle bag
Chain rings are some mismatched bits from the bin.
Changer is a Deore with Shimano bar ends shifters.

I left the bright green brake cable housing on for flash. It's currently set up as a 12 speed, but will scout around for a 7-speed freewheel at the SWAP.

Thanks!

Mark in Madison

mstuartev@tds.net