We don't really have "mountains" in the Twin Cities, but last weekend, I joined some friends for a couple laps around the low-key single-track course of Salem Hills. I rode my 1983 Stumpjumper with rack and fenders, which was kind of a contrast to the dual-suspension bikes that most everybody else was riding. There were other non-suspension bikes in the group, including one fixed-gear, ridden by an extraordinarily loose motherfucker.
Today I asked my favorite bicycle mechanic to remove the fenders and rack, to make the Stumpjumper into more of a pure trail bike. I'm looking forward to hitting the trails again without all the rattling noise.
Anyway, we had the place to ourselves, and with the setting sun over the prairie flowers, there were some great photographic opportunities:
It was a fun time, and I can't wait to get out there again.
9 comments:
did you join marky mark and the fun bunch? he'd mentioned that he goes on saturdays after the shop closes. is that still the case?
Not this Saturday (today), but next week, weather permitting.
I really thought that said "I evolve as a motherfucker." Which made me think you a) punched someone in the nose or b) were expecting a new baby.
I am expecting a new baby.
Congratulations!
Cool, Jim! Dirt can be pretty addictive.
I don't think of this as evolving. I think of it as an act of God. I mean, who believes in evolution anymore?
Hello Jim -
You may also want to consider two additional upgrades that would serve to substantially improve your off-road experience. Firstly, I would suggest a 5" travel fork, but in your case you may be better served with a 4" travel fork so as not to alter your frame geometry too much. Since the new fork would have an upgraded threadless steer tube (you'll need it in a 1" diameter, of course) you can also update the bars and stem to give you a more "aggro" position. A 1" upswept downhill bar, for example. Secondly, I would recommend an overhaul to your braking platform. Since your frame does not have the proper 'tiddly bits' that allow for state of the art hydraulic brakes, I highly endorse the use of V-style brakes to enhance your off-road stopping ability. You will not be disappointed and I dare say you will be pleasantly surprised by the increased efficiency of the braking 'system'. Good luck - I look forward to hearing about your continued adventures on the local single track scene.
David
Eden Prairie
(My favorite local trail is Lebanon Hills)
David: Way ahead of you on the v-brakes. Not ready to hunt down a 1" sus fork yet though...
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