Show us your mixte!

[ummbnb]

Hey saraspins! We picked up our little 24 incher yesterday afternoon. My son exclaimed, "It's a mixte! YES!" For reference on size, my little man is 51" tall.

[Crankin]

That bike looks very cool.

I saw an older guy riding down Rt. 2A this morning, on a mixte that looked like it was a perfect size for me. He was definitely too large for the bike. I thought he might be using it for transportation, but then I saw him riding back in the other direction, when I was done with my errands, guessing he was avoiding even the little rises on this road. He had on street clothes and no helmet, but he appeared to be "exercising."
I wanted to stop and offer him money, but that would have been weird. You guys are enablers.

[Rebecca19804]

... you wait for ages without a single one in sight, then along comes 3 at once!

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/LADIES-EMMELLE-COUNTESS-CHALLENGE-RACING-BIKE-RACER-/120607215476?cmd=ViewItem&pt=UK_Bikes_GL&hash=item1c14c00f74

[LeicaLad]

Well, here is the update on the 1984 Nishiki.

http://i120.photobucket.com/albums/o191/LeicaLad/IMG_1981.jpg

http://i120.photobucket.com/albums/o191/LeicaLad/IMG_1992.jpg

http://i120.photobucket.com/albums/o191/LeicaLad/IMG_1995.jpg

http://i120.photobucket.com/albums/o191/LeicaLad/IMG_1986.jpg

http://i120.photobucket.com/albums/o191/LeicaLad/IMG_1989.jpg

http://i120.photobucket.com/albums/o191/LeicaLad/IMG_1983.jpg

http://i120.photobucket.com/albums/o191/LeicaLad/IMG_1982.jpg

http://i120.photobucket.com/albums/o191/LeicaLad/IMG_1991.jpg


It's better. The upright riding position makes it almost acceptable, but she still doesn't like the mixte frame. It's too high for a comfortable step-thru mount. She likes the deep step-through of the old fashioned Raleigh style.

She also considers the tires to be too thin for her taste. We're looking for a comfort bike, me thinks.

Sigh. This may have to be sold, but I'm gonna drag my feet as long as possible on this. It's not 531, but it's still sooooo sweet.

[sandra]

WOW!!! What a beautiful bike! That thing is really gorgeous and in perfect condition.

* drool * I have this mixte addiction!!!

[sgtiger]

LeicaLad, that's stunning!

[Zen]

Dibs!

[LeicaLad]

I ride a 59cm or 60cm frame, and this is 49cm, but I'm gonna raise that seatpost to the max and give it a try myself. :D

I'll weep that day this baby leaves our house!!! :(

(And it ain't right away, either.)

[Cataboo]

Dibs!


It's red, you already have 2 mixtes, so I get first dibs :)



although I think Leicalad should just force his wife to ride it - or get her a comfort bike which she'll outgrow in a few months and be ready for the mixte.

[LeicaLad]

I'm working on enticing. Well, maybe better called begging, pleading, pouting...

You know: The usual gambits of the married man.

[Zen]

I'm working on enticing. Well, maybe better called begging, pleading, pouting...

You know: The usual gambits of the married man.

I'd better go put on my oven mitts now. Apparently I was playing the role of the man.


It's red, you already have 2 mixtes, so I get first dibs :)



When are you gonna be home? We are really gonna duke it out this time. You think grocery cart guy was scary?

[ZimmermanBW]

Everyone is probably familiar with the Linus mixte, but saw a link to it yesterday, and thought it was nice looking.

http://www.linusbike.com/models/mixte/

I did some design work (frame geometry etc. the style is all theirs) for these guys and I must say having ridden the whole range the Mixte is my favorite!
These guys are super nice and have sweet little biz going.
-Eric

[Zen]

The price point is certainly right but imho that bike has no personality whatsoever

[Cataboo]

The price point is certainly right but imho that bike has no personality whatsoever

Looks like a standard mixte to me, I don't care for that blue color - but looks nice in black.

[Zen]

...but looks nice in black.

with hammered silver fenders

[Cataboo]

with hammered silver fenders


Everyone has the hammered honjo type fenders now, making them overdone... I like red :)

Actually, hammered copper fenders would look awesome - especially if they develop a patina over time, someone make those.

[jdubble]

Everyone has the hammered honjo type fenders now, making them overdone... I like red :)

Actually, hammered copper fenders would look awesome - especially if they develop a patina over time, someone make those.

i've seen brass fenders, but a copper with a patina on it, that would be lovely.

as for the linus, i've seen quite a few around town, and i don't think the picture does it justice. it's a very nice looking bike. i'm rather like that shade of blue myself, but guess that's why it's a good thing they come in black and cream too, eh?

[Cataboo]

I'm working on enticing. Well, maybe better called begging, pleading, pouting...

You know: The usual gambits of the married man.

Can you put fatter tires on it? Maybe do a 650b conversion on it? That maybe getting into a lot of work trying to make your wife like a bike that the rest of us love :)

The skinny tire thing is something that I think people get over after riding a comfort style bike for a while and getting more comfortable with being on a bike again.

[sarahspins]

... you wait for ages without a single one in sight, then along comes 3 at once!

There was a Peugeot listed on my CL maybe 6 weeks ago with a similar frame... same color :)

[Zen]

The skinny tire thing is something that I think people get over after riding a comfort style bike for a while and getting more comfortable with being on a bike again.

Very true. Even my "comfort bike" has skinny tires.

[meligrosa]

Hey saraspins! We picked up our little 24 incher yesterday afternoon. My son exclaimed, "It's a mixte! YES!" For reference on size, my little man is 51" tall.
ah thanks for the mention, my mixte 'the frenchie' is made by motobecane under the Astra line +the model is 'tour de france' :D
mixtes rock!! men here in the bay area ride it as well, this beautiful nishiki can be found in marin, by a handsome young man: http://thefridaycyclotouriste.com/?p=2807
bikey luv <3 xxo.m

[LeicaLad]

Okay, it isn't "really" a mixte, as it the single down tube.

BUT, it IS a Colnago and it is priced to match. It's small @ 50.5cm.

They put their Reserve as $500. $70 for shipping to USA is cheap.

Frame only w/headset and BB. Sure nice to look at!

Somebody got deep pockets?

http://cgi.ebay.com/AWESOME-SUPER-RARE-COLNAGO-MIXTE-ROAD-FRAME-FORK-MORE-/140440346241?pt=Road_Bikes


Usual disclaimer: no relationship or knowledge of seller. Yadda, yadda.

[ultraviolet]

That Colnago frame is lovely, even if it isn't a "real" mixte.

I'm so glad I've just recently resolved to pare down my belongings, or else I might feel like I'd have to try to get that. As it is, I think my Takara mixte is probably going to end up on the selling block soon.

[Zen]

That price is way too high for that frame.

[LeicaLad]

Just in case someone is even considering...

This is from Chas, the technical guru at the Gitane web site:

"Colnago Sport frames and complete bikes were 2nd tier models offered by Colnago. They may not have even been made by Colnago.

The forks have Columbus labels but the seatpost size is listed as 26mm
which might indicate it's made of lower grade tubing."

So, look, but don't leap.

(As I posted this, I felt duty-bound to add this coda...)

Cheers!

[Rebecca19804]

Just got back from a weekend in Frankfurt, Germany. The weekly flea market is famous for "vintage" clothes but the bicycle aspect of it is just as amazing. There are hundreds and hundreds of complete bikes - many, like the clothes, vintage! Most are fit to ride away. You can test-ride before you buy. You can rummage through boxes and boxes and boxes of spare parts. People cycle to the market to search for parts they need, then buy them and fit them to their bikes right then and there. Amazing!

And about 1 in 20 bikes was a mixte. And of those, I'd say about 40% were "loop-frame" aka "swoopy" mixtes. :)

I was, as the English say, gob-smacked for the first 5 minutes... then as delirious as a puppy with two tails not knowing which to wag first. I must have trawled through that market, top to bottom and side to side, three times in each direction. Wow!

Some photos here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=237256&id=701163932&l=e64e497556

[azfiddle]

A couple of mixtes on the Tucson craiglist this weekend:
http://tucson.craigslist.org/bik/1901112810.html
and
http://tucson.craigslist.org/bik/1899033309.html

[Biciclista]

i like that Miyata!

[Zen]

Just got back from a weekend in Frankfurt, Germany. The weekly flea market is famous for "vintage" clothes but the bicycle aspect of it is just as amazing.

Oh, I love that flea market. I used to go there 30 years ago :eek:

[Rebecca19804]

This looks exceptionally nice, doesn't it?
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/LOVELY-OLD-VINTAGE-LADIES-BIKE-BICYCLE-TOWN-STYLE-/180548207052?pt=UK_Bikes_GL


EDIT: It is just so bl**dy pretty... I've caved to temptation and put a bid in. :eek: :p

[Zen]

Wow.
I hope you get it. That bike is pristine.

[Rebecca19804]

Wow.
I hope you get it. That bike is pristine.

I'm thinking it's been 'restored', rather than being original. What do you think?

[Zen]

I don't care :D

[Tri Girl]

wow- it's GORGEOUS!!:D
Crossing fingers it will be yours.

[LeicaLad]

Lots of moaning, groaning and whinging from me. All to no avail.

I have my marching orders.

That sweet red Nishiki is going up in the For Sale section.

[Cataboo]

A couple of nice 48 cm mixtes on DC's craigslist:

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/bik/1980220394.html

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/bik/1980216700.html

[Zen]

My birthday is coming up.
just sayin' :rolleyes:

[Cataboo]

Well, I finally caved and took this home with me:

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WfCe0A3iU1c/TOMRTFC3S_I/AAAAAAAASkE/OfdJr9qczpo/s912/_IGP5925.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WfCe0A3iU1c/TOMRJ-ec50I/AAAAAAAASj8/GCCfx8nZYXg/s912/_IGP5924.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WfCe0A3iU1c/TOMQ6lCiGSI/AAAAAAAASjo/1JjtgETzc5k/s912/_IGP5921.JPG

There's a bit more rust on it than I want - but it's supposed to be my beater bike that I ride to the store or the library and don't worry if it gets stolen.

So I am sitting on my hands to stop myself from buying it all sorts of things and fixing the rust. The guy I got it from mentioned that home depot had a metallic blue paint that was about the right shade that he had been thinking of using to touch it up. I may just do that - enough to stop the rust, but not strip the entire frame and repaint it - because then I would be tempted by red or orange, and I actually really like the blue.

[Tri Girl]

cataboo- that's a REALLY pretty bike!! It's hard to not want to strip it down and fix it up, huh? I bought a "beater bike" but wanted to make it pretty so it wound up being a very expensive beater. :rolleyes:
I'll bet even if you just painted the rust spots it would look like a brand new bike!! Congrats!

[Cataboo]

cataboo- that's a REALLY pretty bike!! It's hard to not want to strip it down and fix it up, huh? I bought a "beater bike" but wanted to make it pretty so it wound up being a very expensive beater. :rolleyes:
I'll bet even if you just painted the rust spots it would look like a brand new bike!! Congrats!

Yeah, every bike that I've tried to have be my beater or errand bike has ended up being fixed up beyond that - the surly turned out to be xtr & 105 level, now big red has turned out to be 105 level with carbon cranks- and I guess Scar wasn't so nice, but my Mom latched on to him :) So then I again, need a beater bike.

So on the mixte - for now, that blue saddle amuses the heck out of me, so I'll try to make it work, it needs to be slid back. I'll leave the drivetrain alone, because it works fine... I need better grips, but I think I'll just ask for some cheap pleather ones for christmas instead of the pretty leather ones I've been eying... And it needs a rack. The 27" wheels on it are fine, so I am really trying hard to not get it 700c wheels (I have a spare front wheel that would work - I would just have to get a rear wheel with whatever the right spacing is...). I want pretty colored tires, and there's some 700c ones that I think would be great, but... I should make myself deal with some not so pretty 27" ones, even though the tires on it are fine.


But if I could strip it and paint it all... And do everything else I am so tempted to do...

[rubywagon]

Love it Cataboo!

[Biciclista]

that saddle has to go! how long can you sit on it?
nice find though.

[Cataboo]

that saddle has to go! how long can you sit on it?
nice find though.

I don't know - I have too much going on and on the to do list. I stuck it in my shed and haven't let myself go visit it so that I don't go strip it and paint it red or orange or something and buy it all new pieces.

[sandra]

There are several mixtes on ebay right now.

Who knew Mongoose made a mixte!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=260696604771&ssPageName=ADME:B:SS:US:1123#ht_500wt_1156

[Rebecca19804]

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=190472348025&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

[sfa]

Thinking of getting this one: http://baltimore.craigslist.org/bik/2165140745.html

Did a bit of research--this is a 1987 model, cheapest one on the lot, so to speak. Hi-ten steel frame, inexpensive components, heavy (catalog puts it at 29 pounds). $50 might be a bit overpriced.

But it's a Miyata (same as my touring bike, which is going strong at nearly 21 years old), and a mixte, and I'm a weak-willed person.

Sarah

[Cataboo]

For the DC or Baltimore area, $50 is cheap.

[sfa]

No kidding. I always wonder who these people are who pick up amazing used bikes from Craigslist for a song. You don't see anything in this area for under $50 unless it has Barbie decals on it.

[Cataboo]

You have to be fast. I've gotten a couple good deals on craigslist.

I was thinking I should put my mixte back up, because I haven't ridden or done anything to her - but I just looked at the pictures - she's pretty.

[sfa]

Alas, it is not to be. DH had called the seller on Tuesday about the bike and arranged to go see it yesterday (my birthday), but when he called yesterday to confirm, the woman had already sold it.

Oh well. I was a bit ambivalent about it anyway.

Sarah

[Sylvia]

For those of you on facebook, I just noticed that Terry posted a prototype of a step-through (not mixte) commuter bike, on their facebook page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Terry-Precision-Cycling/78075887243 Looks like they are asking for feedback.

[ASammy1]

She's a beaut with the single top tube!

http://chicago.craigslist.org/chc/bik/2191566388.html

Edit: Never mind! Posting was flagged :(

[warneral]

I just brought home a 1975 UE18 peugeot mixte - it is just like the one here http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=38489&highlight=peugeot+mixte

The tires are destroyed so I can't really test it out yet but it is in pretty good shape. It has the fenders, attached pump and Generator with lights.

I'm a bit overwhelmed with what to do with it. I think I'll start by either getting tires or looking for some aluminum 27" wheels to replace it with. Thinking of searching garage sales/CL for cheap old ten speeds. Is this a good idea? The wheels are a little rusty and they are steel so I'd really like aluminum ones.

I paid 70 bucks and drove way too far :blush:

[mtbdarby]

I just have a few questions since I'm starting my first rebuild on my sanwa.

Has anyone changed a mixte from a double to a triple? I'm working on my sanwa that's a double with 10 speeds. I plan to use it to ride with my son using a tagalong for one last year so I'd really like the smaller gears. (then it will be my commuter). I believe the biggest ring is a 53 on it if that matters. Two bike stores are recommending I use a hybrid or mtb crank on it if I do that to control costs.

I also need new tires but they said the wheels are good (although dusted with rust). The only problem is I'd like a quick release wheel on the front for obvious ease of remove since I would transport in my car (no carrier yet). Any thoughts on that since I'd like to switch it to a double? Not that I have to have matching wheels but it would be nice.

Or I could just buy this one and be done with it:http://wausau.craigslist.org/bik/2285719030.html
They've been trying to sell this for a while so I would hope I could talk them down a bit.

Thanks for the help!

[Rebecca19804]

Hi Dar

I'm sure TE'ers with personal experience will pitch in here... I've not done this yet on my mixte but I just did it with my Surly Cross Check. Since a triple crankset is wider than a double, you'll also need to replace the bottom bracket (for a longer one) and the front derailleur (for a longer one). Does your bike shop have the right ones to fit your mixte's frame, or can they get them?

Best of luck!

[warneral]

Here are the pictures of my Mixte project. These are before:
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5148/5594697569_82e3d90325_z.jpg
Henry is annoyed that I brought ANOTHER bike home ;)

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5173/5595294316_6045280992_z.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5224/5594703009_fc829759cd_z.jpg

[warneral]

Hi Dar! I am in WI too. In fact I just picked up the above project in Milwaukee on Monday (drove more than 3 hours round trip LOL).

I wouldn't get the Schwinn if I wanted a true mixte. I'm pretty sure the Schwinn mixtes only have a single wide top tube that splits off at the seatpost.

I don't know the answer to your other question but I'm guessing that it would be complicated but since the shifters probably don't index, perhaps that gives more flexibility.

[mtbdarby]

Rebecca, yes, I do know that I need those components to make it a triple and be can find parts the correct size.

Hi Warneral - nice mixte! I'm in Wausau these days....there's a nice raliegh mixte in Sun Prairie on ebay right now:)

I thought I had posted pix of the sanwa last fall but I can't find them. She's orange which is a big plus to me, lol. Silly I know, but I love the color.

The estimates are about $100 to change it to a triple. The rest will be about a hundred as well. Seeing as how I don't know how to do the work myself, although I could figure out some of it, I'd like it done fast so I can get her on the road!

[warneral]

I love orange too!

Are you sure you need the triple? I do understand being weighed down my a kiddo on a trailer :) I am still trying to figure out what I'll do about that - probably use my old trek mountain bike. My kiddos are 6 & 8 but still not strong for distances. B/c they weigh 50lb and under, we can use the trailer even though they are getting too tall! I wish they still sold those 26" trailer bikes!

That Raleigh (of course I had to look it up) is nice! It is actually near Racine in pleasant prairie. MY DH would be ver unhappy for me to buy yet another bike so I will restrain myself. It apperas to have aluminum wheels (early 80's) and I bet I could buy it, sell this one and have an easier/cheaper go with it all. But I'm really liking the looks of this one so I think I'll just slowly do my project and hopefully I won't spend too much$ :)

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270729736486&category=106945&_trksid=p5197.c0.m619

[mtbdarby]

Alison - it was late last night was I was searching ebay so Sun Prairie stuck in my head for some reason, lol. It is a nice bike..... btw, I used to live down by you in Oregon!

See, I have too many bikes. GASP! Did I just admit that??? I do have a mtb and a diamondback hybrid which is what I currently use with the tagalong (ok, and I have a road bike). My son is 8 and I was considering a tandem, but since a tandem would be outgrown in a couple years anyway I thought it would make more sense to fix the mixte and use that and sell the hybrid because its so heavy. I could probably make due with a double but the hybrid is a triple and I use just about every gear when I'm out with him. Or I could just sell the mixte and keep the hybrid but that just seems wrong:p

[warneral]

haha I know what you mean. Last year we went on a family bike ride on the new path in fitchburg and I was using my trek navigator with my daughter on the back. It was a heavy bike and I got really mad b/c of how many people who were passing me. I have considered strapping her on the back of my trek 1000 roadbike but am afraid I wouldn't have enough stability on gravel trails with a 6yo on my back. drop bars + clipless + gravel + tagalong probably not a good idea!

[mtbdarby]

I have a trek 2100 for my road bike and thats why I haven't attached him to that. Plus he's at 60 pounds now and doesn't want to ride his own bike (that's my goal for him this summer) so him and the tagalong are HEAVY. Plus I like sitting more upright with him on and while I'm running errands around town.

I used to work in Fitchberg:) I remembered when they first put in the paved trail....I'm due for a visit. I'll have to let you know when I head that way so we can go for a ride;)

[warneral]

Definitely! That would be nice :)

DH and I like to ride the rails to trails and since we can be travelling over 30mi, we have to do some sort of tandem situation.

Have you done the elroy/spart trail? We LOVE that trail :)

[mtbdarby]

Ok, I decided to keep this a double and get new quick release wheels that aren't rusted and, of course, that I can easily remove. My new quote is $280! And that doesn't include a seat or fenders. The price includes:
handlebars
stem
grips
brakes
brake lever
brake cable and housing
shifters
wheels
tires
tune-up
labor

Does this sound reasonable? The quote was $180 to have a tuneup, new tires and change to a triple so I was thinking they would be about the same cost. Then I went back and noticed he didn't quote the new handlebars on the first quote like I thought he had. I was hoping to keep it under $200 since I'm not doing the work myself...maybe I should try? Or just keep the handlebars, shifting and brakes as is and just replace the wheels, tires and get a tune-up? Any thoughts? What should I prioritize from a budget standpoint? TIA!

[sandra]

I'm seriously considering selling my Lagnano. It is NOS and was built from scratch. It's gorgeous gols and has the swooping curved mixty bars. We simply have not ridden it.

I paid over $400 for it to be built from scratch if that is any help.

[Tri Girl]

So just when I think I don't need a mixte, I see so many pretty ones out there. I bought one about 4 years ago off CL for $12, fixed her up and rode her for a bit until a new bike bug bit and I sold her. I miss her, and still kick myself for selling her. I'm very disappointed in myself- she was such a pretty bike.
Anyway- I was looking at bikesdirect today and saw a whole bunch of Windsor city bikes (mixtes) for dirt cheap. I have known two people who have owned Windsors, and they are decent bikes. For $250, even if it isn't the best quality bike that will last for generations, it sure is pretty and looks awful fun to ride.

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/city_bikes.htm

Now I have mixte lust again. :rolleyes:


BTW- I'm in no way affiliated with the site, but saw these and thought that if anyone just *needs* a new mixte, but can't afford to drop too much money on one- this might be a good option. ;)

[Cataboo]

Oh dear. I want. Is it worth $70 extra for 3 speed vs. 1?

[Kerry1976]

Wow - that is nearly exactly what I've been kind of shopping for. Steel frame in town bike.....hmmmmm

[Crankin]

I saw a mixte leaning up against a stone wall, with a "free" sign, yesterday, when on a ride. I didn't stop and now I am wondering if I should go back and check it out.
It's in front of the house where 2 kids egged me while riding a few years ago....

[Tri Girl]

I saw a mixte leaning up against a stone wall, with a "free" sign, yesterday, when on a ride. I didn't stop and now I am wondering if I should go back and check it out.
It's in front of the house where 2 kids egged me while riding a few years ago....

I'd go back and get that mixte. Think of it as restitution for the egging. ;)

[commuterJNE]

My mixte is just like this one, which I bought in November 2010 and got a closeout price:

http://specialized.com/it/en/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?spid=58236&eid=5333&menuItemId=9438&gold_ses=

It looks much better in the sunlight with the dark brown color, but my images aren't working. I am so happy I got a mixte; the look of it combined with the step-through model is just awesome!

[warneral]

I sold mine! I just didn't think I'd have the time to clean it up like I want. Plus, my town really isn't very quaint and my junky mountain bike does the job for round-the-town trips. I had too many bikes in the garage and it was making me feel agitated! Maybe some day if I lived in a place that would warrant one, I'll look for another Mixte.

[Owlie]

Those look like fun! And they're cute! Alas, finding one at a reasonable price that works for what I want (sort of a sport-utility bike as a commuter and errand-running bike) is unlikely.

[Antaresia]

I want want want this mixte:

http://www.linusbike.com/models/mixte-8/

Of course, I want it because I might reasonably be able to afford it. If I win the lottery or something, I'll be getting a Betty Foy frame.

In the mean time, this is my one and only bike. I didn't even know what a mixte was when I bought it.

http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab17/Candoia/people/badideabike.png

[Biciclista]

sweet bike, Antaresia!

[Robert Raburn]

The 1980 high-tensile Nishiki frame received some new 27" CR18 rims, pasela tires, bars, saddle and a custom cut guard ring. Other bits were in my basement. The result is a bare-bones townie that is lighter than the fully loaded CroMo SOMA! It is fun to ride, but without a rack, lights, and fenders it is less useful than the SOMA.


Front Hub 32H - Shimano Dura Ace
Rear Hub 36H 126mm w/6sp HG freewheel - Shimano Exage
Rear Derailler - Shimano 600
Shifter - Deore SL-MT62 Thumb Shifter
Bottom Bracket - NOS Shimano BB-UN72
Crank - 165mm Suntour XCE 36T w/custom Guard Ring
Front Brake - NOS Weinemann Vainqueur 610 Center Pull
Rear Brake - NOS Dia Comp Mod 750 Center Pull
Brake Levers - Dia Comp
Chain - Shimano HG90
Saddle - New Evolution Body Ergo
Pedals - New VP320
Grips - Ritchey True Grips
New Cables and lined cable housing

[Robert Raburn]

After building the Nishiki "Pink Panther" for a friend in 2009, I wanted to next match an internal gear hub (IGH) to a mixte. As a reward for Pat's work on my BART election campaign last year, we shopped for a suitable frame. First we bought a bare 1980 Hi-Ten Nishiki, then a butchered Centurion before settling on a new SOMA Buena Vista frame for a full zoot build with Nexus 8sp IGH and dynamo hub on VO rims. It took months to assemble the components. The Mafac center-pull brakes offer great performance and lend a tip-of-the-hat to "something old."

[7rider]

http://youtu.be/W-rAv43UFnA

[Chicken Little]

http://youtu.be/W-rAv43UFnA

Wow.

[HillSlugger]

Poor bike! :(

[Tri Girl]

:DWell I finally found another mixte to love. I had a mixte, but I foolishly sold her.
You see, I've been searching craigslist for a bike for my boss (who wants to ride a bike but hasn't in 40 years and wanted to start out with something inexpensive). I was supposed to be looking for a single speed with a coaster brake. For her. Not a bike for me.

But then I found her.

And I'm in love.

She's all original from 1983. She's a beautiful sparkly gold color with root beer accents. Original everything but new tires and tubes. I found 2 broken spokes on her rear wheel when I was cleaning her up, but her paint is pristine and she is excpeptionally clean and well-maintained. I will switch out her drop bars for moustache bars and change her shifters, and put my brown Brooks saddle on her.... but she's mine. And only $80 (which I thought was a rather good deal- although I might have been a bit emotional with my decision:rolleyes: ).
I imagine a porteur rack on the front for carrying things and hammered VO stainless fenders. Ah... this is going to be fun.

[Tri Girl]

Poor bike! :(

I know, right? :(

[hebe]

I saw this one (http://www.dawescycles.com/p-577-cambridge-mixte.aspx) today - a Dawes Cambridge that shimmered purple in the sun. I am quite smitten, and it's a good price, though I think I'd have to add Brooks saddle and grips. Going back on Monday to have a proper look.

That would sort the question of whether to keep or sell the Marin.

[murielalex]

I love it!

[Fredwina]

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-mJE8K7WAPoc/T4oAI3r7wtI/AAAAAAAARtk/4V4l_4ROxPc/s640/100_0739.JPG
From my last time in Memphis. may rent her again.

[Tri Girl]

most certainly, Fredwina. What a pretty mixte! :)

[Sylvia]

There's one on ebay right now that is a real looker.
Custom Mixte, 8 speed Internal Hub, 54 cm (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Custom-Mixte-8-Speed-Internal-Hub-Drum-brakes-54cm?item=140759982193&cmd=ViewItem&_trksid=p5197.m7&_trkparms=algo%3DLVI%26itu%3DUCI%26otn%3D4%26po%3DLVI%26ps%3D63%26clkid%3D8725490891078620551)

[hebe]

I saw this one (http://www.dawescycles.com/p-577-cambridge-mixte.aspx) today - a Dawes Cambridge that shimmered purple in the sun. I am quite smitten, and it's a good price, though I think I'd have to add Brooks saddle and grips. Going back on Monday to have a proper look.

That would sort the question of whether to keep or sell the Marin.

The Marin is getting a pre-Ebay service in just over a week, and I'm lining up some other stuff to sell.

Is there anything I need to be mindful of with the spec for this bike? It would be for light errands, popping round to friends etc. I'm a little wary that such a pretty bike might be light on functionality or might not last, but Dawes seems to be a fairly well regarded brand here. Every time I see one I want to bring it home. If anyone has time to have a quick look at the spec (http://www.dawescycles.com/p-577-cambridge-mixte.aspx)and post any comments I'd be most grateful, thank you.

[uforgot]

Look what followed me home! (happens a lot) A trek 420L mixte. 1984, only year it was made. Quite a find. $100 on craigslist. Will post pics after upgrades.1541815419

[Owlie]

I found a 1985 Peugeot mixte on eBay in my size. White.

Good thing I'm broke. I don't need another bike. I don't need another bike. Even though I would like something that I can slap a rack and panniers on...

[forestbiker]

16166

16167

Built with pride in Japan, rebuilt with love in Washington.
Found an old Sekai mixte for $50 on Craigslist. Stripped it down, repainted it, and put on all new, modern components.
I call it "The Orange Creamsicle." Something, light, fun, not too serious.
She is one sweet ride, and good looking too!

[Rebecca19804]

In the process of "re-purposing" my 1979 Puch Princess. I was thinking something much closer to her original state i.e. drop bars. This is where we're at, at the moment.

16168

Problem is, having ridden her like this for a few weeks, I really am not getting on with those non-aero brake levers. So I'm thinking of putting Tektro levers on. Was mulling over whether that might look a little ridiculous, but feeling very reassured by forestbiker's re-build. That looks fab!

Can't afford a respray just now but hopefully soon.

[uforgot]

16166

16167

Built with pride in Japan, rebuilt with love in Washington.
Found an old Sekai mixte for $50 on Craigslist. Stripped it down, repainted it, and put on all new, modern components.
I call it "The Orange Creamsicle." Something, light, fun, not too serious.
She is one sweet ride, and good looking too!

It's beautiful. Any chance you would share what components you put on?

[forestbiker]

Well, as far as components go, I really had to lower my expectations. I wanted a Sugino crankset. Got a Origin 8 instead. Origen 8 seat because I found it in white, (butt still hurts, hope it's just breaking in).
Handlebars are Nitto, bar tape is Salsa, stem is Profile Design, caliper brakes and brake levers are Tektro. The cost of wheels had me nervous, these are some Weinmann (?) econo wheels, but my mechanic says they are good wheels and have good spokes. Tires are Continental Gatorskins and mechanic put some good rim strips in.

With lowering expectations, the bike all in all is still a $1000 bike. If I would of shot for the moon on components, yowza! Cost would have been much more.

[SATyred]

Here is my 1981 Azuki Mixte. I just finished restoring it for my buddies girlfriend.

16422

16411

[iskrapi]

Here's my 1980 Motobecane Modele Difusion Mixte.

17067

[Rebecca19804]

Anyone in the UK looking for a nice mixte? This one's a classic and in nearly-new condition. I can vouche for the nice ride feel of Puchs - I have 3! :D
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/PUCH-LADIES-UNISEX-TOURING-BIKE-CYCLE-NEAR-MINT-/111350125029?pt=UK_Bikes_GL&hash=item19ecfc11e5

[blackhillsbiker]

17257
My 50th birthday bike (2 years later, it's a long story). She needs a name. I wasn't sure I'd like such an upright ride but she really is sweet.

Deb

[uforgot]

17257
My 50th birthday bike (2 years later, it's a long story). She needs a name. I wasn't sure I'd like such an upright ride but she really is sweet.

Deb

She certainly is a beauty! What a wonderful way to celebrate your 50s. Congrats!

[sandra]

She's gorgeous! I think I'd call her Lilly.

[GLC1968]

17257
My 50th birthday bike (2 years later, it's a long story). She needs a name. I wasn't sure I'd like such an upright ride but she really is sweet.


I'm going to guess that you got the frame for your birthday and it took you two years to build it up. No? That's what happened to me! I got the same frame for our 10th wedding anniversary 1.5 years ago and mine is still in the process of being built up. I hope to ride it for the first time before the end of September! I'll share a photo when it's done.

Your's is lovely!

[Rebecca19804]

Needed a cheap and cheerful town bike, so I got this:

17355

Very much buyer beware situation (http://velovoice.blogspot.co.uk/2014/08/announcing-viking-invasion.html) but rides far better than expected.
RE names for a white mixte - I went with Astrid, but Lily is a great suggestion, wish I'd thought of that!

[GLC1968]

My beauty! Her name is Stephanotis.

17418

[uforgot]

My beauty! Her name is Stephanotis.

17418
Oh that is a beauty! Love the seat and bar tape. Congrats!

[sandra]

I sold/traded both of my mixtes but I still come here and droll over these.

[Owlie]

My beauty! Her name is Stephanotis.

17418

Very pretty! What did you build it up with?

[Rebecca19804]

In the process of "re-purposing" my 1979 Puch Princess. I was thinking something much closer to her original state i.e. drop bars. This is where we're at, at the moment.

16168

Problem is, having ridden her like this for a few weeks, I really am not getting on with those non-aero brake levers. So I'm thinking of putting Tektro levers on. Was mulling over whether that might look a little ridiculous, but feeling very reassured by forestbiker's re-build. That looks fab!

Can't afford a respray just now but hopefully soon.

UPDATE: Went almost 100% modern in the end :eek: LOVE IT! :)

17578

Full story here (http://velovoice.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/puch-princess-reborn-sacrilege-or-best.html).