OK, I'm not a serious bike rider but I'm serious when I ride.
My recent 177 mile trek on the Katy Trail put a beating on my trusty circa 2001 Gary Fisher Nirvana hybrid so I when I returned a decision had to be made. Should I buy a new hybrid or overhaul my faithful steed? Tough choice, both would be costly endeavors to do it right.
After the Katy trip I had my bike parked in my office and I couldn't stop thinking- "This is an awesome bike...I can't part with it...there's nothing cooler out there". So I called Bob Albright, an elder at Redeemer and owner of Midwest Cyclery to receive counsel concerning what an overhaul would mean in terms of added performance, technology improvement (an 8 year old bike is old considering multiple recent advances in cyclery), longevity, and cost. After talking with Bob, I became convinced it was time to give my Gary Fisher a face lift and some new life. Instead of spending a bunch of money on a new bike, I spent a bunch of money making an old one newer and pretty unique. I'm sure it's the only 2001 Gary Fisher Nirvana with the particular upgrades I have made. Bob did a great job with this make over! Here she is now-
The biggest improvement are the wheels. These Aksium sealed bearing bad boys are lighter and stronger. Secondly, the new Sora crankset has more teeth and thus will have more power and speed. I also replaced/upgraded the rear cassette, chain, pedals, tires, tubes, etc. I'm starting to train for a sprint triathlon in August, so I can't wait to start working my "new" Gary Fisher.
7 comments:
Awesome bike man...!
All I can say is, you must have a great marriage. Congrats.
My former jail Sergeant and good friend is a serious bicyclist. He, too, has a couple of old favorites he has built up over the years. The relationship between bicyclist and rider seems to be a very intimate one. Obviously, one worth considerable investment.
My friend, Harold, blogs his rides. He does a pretty good job. You can read it here:
http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/directory/?o=3Tzut&user=spandoman&v=z
Have fun.
Mike
Yes BT, me and my bike have been together for 8 years...
Thanks for the link Michael!
I guess I had never heard of a bicycle make over? But no doubt, you were being a good steward of God’s resources from 2 points. Not buying a new bike, and most important, entrusting your ole prized steed into the hands of dear Bob. There is not a more gentle giant in this world that dear Brother Bob Albright. He is indeed a saint!
Looks the same to me
You're such a nerd!! HA HA! I'm inheriting a limited edition Fisher from my uncle who's dying of prostate cancer. If he ever finally kicks it, we'll have to race!!!
Post a Comment