I was surprised at how much it rides like the original Cross Check. Of course, it was unloaded except for the spare parts that were left over after the conversion, but I really did not notice the longer wheelbase at all. More photos are on the Flickr site, including super-size versions.
I think this is going to be handy as hell - the big side bags can swallow the equivalent of 6 bags of groceries and handle oversized and odd-shaped stuff well. I was pleased that Mark at HC was able to squeeze the fenders under the top deck; it's tight, and I am probably at the upper limits of my tire size that I can run with this set up, but I doubt I would need anything wider than the 700 x 38c's I am currently riding (and by that, I mean "rocking").
Unfortunately for me, I did not dress quite correctly for the ride home (yes, yes... I know better). My eyes sort of froze shut in the brisk westerly breeze and my manparts were, um... cold. Other than that, it was a nice ride.
A big thanks to Mark and Jim at HC for the build and fellowship while the finishing touches were added - I am looking forward to some more pleasant riding weather to try it out more fully.
Edit: I got a few questions from friends and co-workers about how this attaches to the frame. Here is a link with some good photos showing the conversion.
Looks great.
ReplyDeleteThank you for (among other things) making fun of some of my slang pet peeves.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Shishi.
ReplyDeleteJim - Every time I hear someone talking about how they had to pull the trigger on a new whip because the ride they were rocking was just not right, it kind of makes me want to smack someone. And by that, I mean smack someone.
Even though they are talking about bikes.
I am turning into a curmudgeon.
Sometimes for extra emphasis, I prefer "rawk" to "rock". As in: I see you are rawking the Tektro v-brake levers. This modification of the usual vernacular, however slight it may seem, is only for the most refined of douchebags.
ReplyDeleteCongrats and welcome to the club
ReplyDelete