This is my 62cm Rivendell Quickbeam which I bought in June as my
commuter bike. My first setup was with Nitto Albatross bars and
a Brooks swallow saddle (some people literally stopped me on the
street to complement my cork grips!!). I found the saddle somewhat
inappropriate for such an upright position, so I switched it with
a Brooks B17. This setup was a lot like the Euro commuters: slow
and easy, fine for mostly flat roads (as is the case in Manhattan).
Now I want to use it for both commuting and winter training, so
I put Nitto Noodle bars on with Tektro levers. I varnished the cork
grip, and I doubt I'll ever do it again - it was messy and I honestly
don't like the way it looks but I'll wait until it wears out. I
use Power Grips on the pedals so I can ride with any shoes. Fenders
from Velo Orange and a Nitto rear rack from my touring bike round
out the package.
I
never had a single-speed before so it took a bit of getting used
to, but I really like it now; it just feels natural (I have "single-speed"
equipment for walking and running too-my legs!). I really prefer
the drop bars as I can get up to speed by getting out of the saddle,
and that position feels much more natural with drop bars than it
did with the Albatross bars. Also, I intend to take this bike on
trails at some point; I may swap out the tires for Vittoria CX diamond-tread
tires.
I
may have to work something out a little better for getting the rear
wheel off; the Nitto rack has tabs that make it hard to slip the
quick-release off (I have to remove it completely).
The
bike has a lovely, quiet nature to it. It handles well and provides
a smooth ride; the saddle is finally breaking in. I really look
forward to commuting now.
David
Regen
dregen@gladstonegallery.com
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