So as many of you are aware a few hardy
ers are entering the London to Brighton bike ride on 11th September this year. 54 miles with some serious hill climbs. Any other takers btw???
I was considering using my WHEELS Expert for the ride, but am now wondering whether I'd be better off using a 'survivor' frame/build which could then be restored in my usual manner after the event. With this in mind I have hopefully sourced a suitable frame (no names yet as it hasn't actually arrived and I don't want to jinx it..!)
I am therefore gathering some suitable parts and thought this could make for an interesting thread. I'm looking for input and ideas for a RELIABLE and comfy build that will get me all of the way to Brighton. All input and ideas appreciated.
What I have in my stash and have earmarked to be used include a NOS original 80's red anno Tange 125 headset, a tidy Pat. Pending TufNeck stem, set of Bottema M-2 race forks, pair of WHEELS bars which are off being rechromed, Shimano DX seatpost, jam buttie flex fighter and seatpost clamp, Sugino BB and a 180 Hanabishi OPC.
I thought the Bottema's would provide extra strength, same for the DX seatpost. Flex fighter too. I wanted to use a new headset for the same reason; reliability.
I opted for the Hanabishi OPC due to simplicity and I thought the 180 length might help on the hilly sections. Thoughts! I also have 44T (Sugino) or 46T Yes Racing chainring options. Again, thoughts?
I have a very tidy black pair of ACS Stoker pedals which I will get refinished after the event to suit the final build colour scheme.
Wheels... well as the build will be primarily white and red I am either considering nabbing the red skinnies off my Mini (complete with Aero rear discs) or possibly reverting to full on 80's BMX form and going with a pair of early 80's alloy hubbed red Skyways which I have already. I am leaning more towards the Skyway option at the minute. Freewheel size is also something I am deliberating over.
Seat and grips; undecided. I have a few sets of comfy red grips, including A'ME, Shrooms and Uni Hand Grenade II's. I will definitely be using a modern padded mountain bike seat, most likely with a padded BMX seat cover.
No idea on brakes yet but will source them to suit my final wheel choice.
I'll have to add a race plate with some event stickers also, plus a means of carrying a water bottle, spare inner tube and a few tools etc....
Not sure on tyre choice either...
Might even go for cheaper modern options for smoother road riding.
Anybody got any thoughts or input??