Show us your mixte!

[uforgot]

Got this idea from Sandra's thread and a similar one was on bike forums. Some beautiful mixtes there! I'll post a pic of mine when I get home tonight.

[Trek420]

My new/old mixte fixie (with flip flop hub) :)

[mimitabby]

oh East Hill, where are you??

[East Hill]

Mimitabby, you enabler, you!

Here's my 1980 Centurion LeMans:

http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k317/East_Hill/IMG_1549.jpg

1980's something or other Raleigh:

http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k317/East_Hill/IMG_1524.jpg

http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k317/East_Hill/IMG_1510.jpg

1985? Nishiki Sport:

http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k317/East_Hill/IMG_1496.jpg

These are bikes I currently own...

East Hill

[sandra]

well, I just bought it, and technically, I don't have it yet, but she is MINE! I hope I did OK.

http://i204.photobucket.com/albums/bb12/Sandradav/f739_12.jpg

[uforgot]

Here is the one I sold last weekend. A Bianchi. I loved it, but it was really uncomfortable to ride as it was huge on me. I sold it to a college student who I think loved it as much as I did. (But I put your Brooks on my road bike Lisa!)

[uforgot]

East Hill: I've seen your posts on the "other" forum about mixtes...you are one of the reasons I've become so interested in them! Love seeing all of them together. Absolutely beautiful! Can you tell me what kind of bar tape you have on the centurion? It looks brown, and I can't find any brown for my "new" Nishiki other than cloth tape or the Brooks leather, which I'm considering.

Sandra...that's a mixte! I love it. Details? What kind and where did you find it?

Trek: The full pic with the cactus and flowers is great. That bike is simply gorgeous! Kind of nice seeing the result after reading all of your posts as you pulled it all together.

[East Hill]

Yes, the Raleigh is actually too large for me as well...anyone need a nice red Raleigh mixte?

Edit: Thank you, uforgot! I do love my mixtes :D . I've had two others, another Nishiki Sport (a later year) and a beautiful blue Peugeot (which was given to a member of the 'other' forum). The Centurion does indeed have brown cloth tape. It's just brown cloth with a sticky back--not shellacked down even. It is original to the bike, too. When I went to purchase the bike (from a CL ad in Portland), the gentleman selling the bike had a matching men's version. I tried to entice my husband into wanting it, but no go. Too bad...if I'd known better I would have gotten it anyway. It was his size, AND it had bar cons. Live and learn!

East Hill

[rij73]

Ummmm.... this thread is dangerous. Now I want one! :p

[Torrilin]

I already wanted one. Must not go to LBS today... Need another week or two of saving.

[mimitabby]

Torrilin
Mixtes are not that easy to find. there is not a single one on Ebay nor is there one on Craigslist in my area.
and about the Brooks brown leather tape? I have it on my bike. it was expensive, but it is WONDERFUL!!!!

[uforgot]

There ARE some on ebay, but you can't type in Mixte. Typically they are called women's or ladies bikes. I rarely find that someone calls it a mixte. Here are some on ebay right now.

Gitane (http://cgi.ebay.com/Vintage-Gitane-Ladies-Bike-Grand-Sport-De-Luxe-Simplex_W0QQitemZ160164735093QQihZ006QQcategoryZ98084QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)

medalist (http://cgi.ebay.com/Medalist-Ladies-Road-Bike-Police-Auctions_W0QQitemZ140164437877QQihZ004QQcategoryZ98084QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)

Fuji (http://cgi.ebay.com/WOMENS-FUJI-PALISADE-ROAD-BICYCLE-BIKE-12-SPEED_W0QQitemZ170153828535QQihZ007QQcategoryZ98084QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)


I'm sort of liking that Fuji myself. I go to Road Bikes, complete bikes and frames and type in (wom*,lad*) All auctions that begin with wom (women,woman,women's) or lad (ladies) will come up. These three are just on the first page. I'm sure there are more. And I look at ALL bikes listed as women's and ladies on St. Louis craigslist. Mixtes come up quite often.

[sandra]

Oh my gosh. I hope I have not messed up. The one I got is a 53 cm. My road bike is a 52. Hubby's is a 54. I can ride both.

:eek: PANIC. I hope it is not too large.

[uforgot]

Fixed gear (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220155891478&ssPageName=MERC_VIC_RCRX_Pr4_PcY_BIN_IT&refitem=220157356824&itemcount=4&refwidgetloc=closed_view_item&usedrule1=CrossSell_LogicX&refwidgettype=cross_promot_widget)

[sandra]

whew. I feel better. That one is much more expensive than mine.

[Torrilin]

Torrilin
Mixtes are not that easy to find. there is not a single one on Ebay nor is there one on Craigslist in my area.
and about the Brooks brown leather tape? I have it on my bike. it was expensive, but it is WONDERFUL!!!!

No they're not most places. I never even saw one growing up.

In Madison they're not super rare. If you head downtown, chances are good you'll spot one or two parked at a bike rack. Good luck trying to get one on Craigslist tho... they get snapped up fast unless they're priced like a new bike. If it's Japanese, it might get snapped up even then.

[uforgot]

whew. I feel better. That one is much more expensive than mine.

Well, I'll make you feel great. I paid $199 BIN for my Bianchi. Shipping extra.

[uforgot]

No they're not most places. I never even saw one growing up.

In Madison they're not super rare. If you head downtown, chances are good you'll spot one or two parked at a bike rack. Good luck trying to get one on Craigslist tho... they get snapped up fast unless they're priced like a new bike. If it's Japanese, it might get snapped up even then.

Huh? I don't understand? Maybe it's where you live, but I find them all the time on craigslist. The one I purchased last weekend ($40)had been on there since Sept. 19th. I just posted four that I found on ebay, and two nishikis that I was watching ended yesterday. Like I said, you can't search for mixte. These people with them in their garages have no idea WHAT they are.

[sandra]

Thank you. I'm catching my breath now. I made a snap decision on that bike. I loved it. I haven't even seen it yet, but I'm trying not to have buyers remorse. :)

[sandra]

Like I said, you can't search for mixte.

I did. and the only one listed was the red one that I just bought. But, I loved it and it seemed perfect. This guy sells a lot of vintage bikes.

http://cgi.ebay.com/VINTAGE-BICYCLE-LOTUS-BICYCLE-12-SPEED-BIKE-MIXTE-NICE_W0QQitemZ220157356824QQihZ012QQcategoryZ98084QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

[uforgot]

Thank you. I'm catching my breath now. I made a snap decision on that bike. I loved it. I haven't even seen it yet, but I'm trying not to have buyers remorse. :)

If you love it, and I do too since my favorite color is red, then that's all that matters! Know what I like about it? It's got the single tube instead of the split tube. I haven't yet seen a mixte in person like that. An unusual mixte, now THAT'S classic! I still think a black brooks would look really great...am I helping you spend enough money yet????-

[sandra]

It's got the single tube instead of the split tube.

Please explain. I don't know enough to know the difference.

My black Brooks B67 would have to come off of my road bike to go on here. hummm. I might just do it!

[uforgot]

I did. and the only one listed was the red one that I just bought. But, I loved it and it seemed perfect. This guy sells a lot of vintage bikes.

http://cgi.ebay.com/VINTAGE-BICYCLE-LOTUS-BICYCLE-12-SPEED-BIKE-MIXTE-NICE_W0QQitemZ220157356824QQihZ012QQcategoryZ98084QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

I guess what I meant was you won't get many hits if you only search for mixte. You have to dig, but they are always there...

[uforgot]

Please explain. I don't know enough to know the difference.

My black Brooks B67 would have to come off of my road bike to go on here. hummm. I might just do it!

The top tube, the part you step over, isn't split.

From Sheldon once again:

A variant on the mixte uses a single, full sized top tube running from the upper head tube to the seat tube, but retains the middle set of stays.


You have 3 sets of seat stays, back by the wheel, and THAT makes it a mixte. Some people think any step-through is a mixte, but it needs the three stays.

Welcome to the club, and ENJOY! I want to see pics when you get it. And you already have a black brooks...must have been meant to be!

[East Hill]

Please explain. I don't know enough to know the difference.

A classic mixte style has twin toptubes. You can tell in a photo if it's the classic style because the tubes will be thinner.

If you look at the photos of my Raleigh you will easily see the twin tubes.

East Hill

[mimitabby]

Please explain. I don't know enough to know the difference.

My black Brooks B67 would have to come off of my road bike to go on here. hummm. I might just do it!

where the top tube is in a std bike, on the mixte there are usually two skinny tubes. The one you bought only has one??

[sandra]

I see! That is sort of weird that it's not split.

Ok, we need a NAME for my special girl. and yes, I'll get pics when it gets here.

[sandra]

LOL. I guess I didn't realize what I bought. I wonder WHY it is a single top tube and if that means it is older or newer, etc.

What about Lotus?

[Torrilin]

Huh? I don't understand? Maybe it's where you live, but I find them all the time on craigslist. The one I purchased last weekend ($40)had been on there since Sept. 19th. I just posted four that I found on ebay, and two nishikis that I was watching ended yesterday. Like I said, you can't search for mixte. These people with them in their garages have no idea WHAT they are.

It is where I live *g*. Madison has a lot of women on bikes, and some of 'em are on mixtes. And there's got to be a fair number of people hunting for 'em, or the "women's bikes" with mixte frames wouldn't have the listings vanish so quickly (a few days ago there was a Japanese one listed in town for under $100... it lasted less than 8 hours). A listing for $250+ will stick around a bit. Regular step throughs tend to stick around longer. The Motobecane that's up now for $120 will probably stay up longer. French threading seems to scare Craigslist buyers around here.

[uforgot]

Why do I feel like I'm just changing my feet in my mouth?

Oh, mine didn't fit. Hey, yours is a mixte with a single top tube!

I'm going to do some research. I've seen the single top tubes on ebay before and wondered if they were newer. Now I'm intrigued again, because it certainly IS a mixte. (3 rear stays remember). When you get it, see if you can find a serial number on it. Do a search on Lotus serial numbers and see if you can get a date on it. I didn't have any luck on my Bianchi, but I've had several bikes that I could even get the month they were manufactured and where!

[dex]

Yes, the Raleigh is actually too large for me as well...anyone need a nice red Raleigh mixte?


I have a friend who's been looking for a mixte. What would it take for you to part with it? :)

Oh, and here's the Mercier that I want to fix up...

[mimitabby]

Dex, your Mercier looks great!

I already contacted East Hill about the Raleigh... :cool:

[uforgot]

It is where I live *g*. Madison has a lot of women on bikes, and some of 'em are on mixtes. And there's got to be a fair number of people hunting for 'em, or the "women's bikes" with mixte frames wouldn't have the listings vanish so quickly (a few days ago there was a Japanese one listed in town for under $100... it lasted less than 8 hours). A listing for $250+ will stick around a bit. Regular step throughs tend to stick around longer. The Motobecane that's up now for $120 will probably stay up longer. French threading seems to scare Craigslist buyers around here.

Madison Wisconsin? Are you close to Chicago? I've bid on a couple of "pick up only" mixtes there. $250???? Biking isn't as popular where I live, so I guess it's easier here. Guess there are trade-offs wherever you live. You have bikers, I have rednecks driving big trucks with shotguns.lol

[East Hill]

I have a friend who's been looking for a mixte. What would it take for you to part with it? :)

Oh, and here's the Mercier that I want to fix up...

Mimitabby beat you to the draw! But if it's too big for her, you're next in line!

If it ends up going your way--it's free to a good home :) .

Your Mercier is quite lovely!

East Hill

[dex]

I hope the Raleigh works out for you, Mimi. I know you've been wanting a mixte, and there's no doubt you would give it a great home. But, definitely, if it ends up being too big, let me know. :)

Everytime I start to think the Mercier is taking up too much room in my place (I live in a one-bedroom apartment, and it stays in the kitchen), I go look at it and can't stand the thought of not taking the prettiness out for a ride one day (when I have the extra money to put into working on it).

[Eden]

If you're ever looking for a good place to fix your mixte up - (you're up here on capitol hill right?) 20/20 Cycles over on East Union has the know how and probably the parts to fix it up and won't over charge you.

[yellow]

Some of you have already seen this bike...

I acquired it this summer from a friend to whom I pledged undying friendship for all eternity in return. Not quite like selling your soul to the Devil, but eternity is a long time. I sure hope she doesn't turn out to be a serial killer.

Anyway, it's a 1976 Bob Jackson, original paint and all. It's a wee tad small for me, so I recently had some Nitto Grand Randonneur bars put on to "stretch" me out a bit more. Those are Cane Creek levers in gum color. I think they look pretty good. The bike was a 7 speed but is now a 6 speed as I needed a lower gear to get up the hill coming home a little more...comfortably...and the other 7 speed cog I had didn't quite fit.

You can also see some other pictures of the bike "before" here (http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b3...n/IMG_0422.jpg)on the aforementioned friend's Photobucket site.

I do have a basket, but I probably won't use it until next year. For now it's weatherproof panniers.

(Note: I know the reflectors are dorky, but when I leave for work in the AM it's pretty dark. 'Nuf said.)

Before:

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c1/tasdan/Just%20for%20Fun/Bikes/BJ.jpg

After:

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c1/tasdan/Just%20for%20Fun/Bikes/NewBJ003.jpg

The Grand Randonneur bars and cane creek levers:

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c1/tasdan/Just%20for%20Fun/Bikes/NewBJ001.jpg

[dex]

Thanks, Eden! Yep, I'm on Capitol Hill and I'm definitely going to make a note of 20/20. I still feel at a loss when it comes to finding a bike shop that I'm comfortable with around here.

[Eden]

You'll like 20/20 - very informal and relaxed (have a seat on the couch, read a book, sometimes have a cup of tea or even a beer). Alex specializes in bike re-use and loves old bikes, but won't put his nose up at my carbon racer either. If he doesn't have it, he'll know where to get it, and order it (whatever it might be).

[uforgot]

Nishiki Olympic 12. This is it's before picture. As it is now. I like the brown cable housing and I was really surprised when I took off the yucky Cannondale nylon saddle bag and it revealed one of those holders that will hold up my Carradice Barley. (Like the ones on Rivendell website). I'm leaning towards the dark brown handlebar tape and saddle from Brooks. Needs new tires, cable and I have a bottle holder ordered.

[sandra]

nice!!!

and btw, I think I have that same rabbit behind the front wheel. :D

[sandra]

oh and, bottle holder ordered? What kind? What do you put on a mixte?

[uforgot]

Torrilin
Mixtes are not that easy to find. there is not a single one on Ebay nor is there one on Craigslist in my area.
and about the Brooks brown leather tape? I have it on my bike. it was expensive, but it is WONDERFUL!!!!



Mimi, here's one I found on Seattle craigslist.

mixte (http://seattle.craigslist.org/oly/bik/440180863.html)

Thanks for the good review on the leather bar tape. I'm going to look into it.

[sandra]

$80! what a steal!

[uforgot]

oh and, bottle holder ordered? What kind? What do you put on a mixte?

I ordered this one because I don't have cage mounts on my bike:

Minoura Bottle Cage Mount (http://www.niagaracycle.com/product_info.php?products_id=2705)

And you DEFINITELY need to check into these::D

Bicycle Bells (http://www.pylones-usa.com/product.php?product=64)

[sandra]

yep. I want the ladybug. :D

[uforgot]

ANOTHER one on the Seattle craigslist:

Sekai (http://seattle.craigslist.org/sno/bik/438425212.html)

Torrilin: You're right. I couldn't find one in Madison!!!!

[sandra]

Oh my gosh. They are so cheap. I overpaid. :o

[uforgot]

yep. I want the ladybug. :D

I KNEW it!:D

[sandra]

I KNEW it!:D
I may name my bike June. It think it looks like a June Cleaver bike.

[uforgot]

I may name my bike June. It think it looks like a June Cleaver bike.

If you name it June, you have to wear pearls when you ride it.:eek:

[divingbiker]

I've posted these before but what the heck, I'll join the party. I've got two mixtes, one with a split top tube, and one with a solid tube.

Here's the grocery store bike, a 1987 Bridgestone 300 bought from Craigslist for $120. I replaced the stem and got a Brooks saddle off eBay. The rack is ugly, but I can't find a reasonably priced one that looks nice.

4512

Here's my commuting bike. I bought it from Rivendell for more than I care to admit, but I love it. It's a 58 cm bike, and I'm 5'7" tall.

4513

[Torrilin]

Madison Wisconsin? Are you close to Chicago? I've bid on a couple of "pick up only" mixtes there. $250???? Biking isn't as popular where I live, so I guess it's easier here. Guess there are trade-offs wherever you live. You have bikers, I have rednecks driving big trucks with shotguns.lol

Yup, Wisconsin. Chicago is a bit far for me, since I'm carless. Keep in mind that Madison is home to the state university, and Trek bicycles has their home office near here. So there is a large and very active used bike market. There's a good bike trail and lane system. There's something like 4-5 bike shops within walking distance of campus, one of which specializes in used bikes. All this adds up to used bikes costing more. I think mixtes are relatively common (ie, you'll see people using them on a near daily basis) because Madison has been bike happy for a very long time... it's not unusual to find a bike that's older than I am parked at the library.

Edit: the motobecane is still up... the seller dropped the price, which makes me nervous.

[sandra]

If you name it June, you have to wear pearls when you ride it.:eek:

I'm a southern girl. I can do that. I love pearls. :D

[KnottedYet]

Mimi, here's one I found on Seattle craigslist.

mixte (http://seattle.craigslist.org/oly/bik/440180863.html)


Oh, NO!!!!! Must. Stop. Reading. This. Thread! :eek:

Edit: oh, lordee, the Sekai is also gorgeous! <but luckily wayyyy too small>

[SadieKate]

Yellow, the BJ looks great! I'm so glad she's seeing the light of day and getting out and about. Doubled-lugged steel, she's so purdy.

-- SK (keeping her killer instincts in check :))

[Trek420]

If you name it June, you have to wear pearls when you ride it.:eek:

and a poodle skirt? :p

[xeney]

I have four mixtes but I only have photos of three of them ... the fourth is a piece of crap that I'm going to give away eventually.

Nishiki Sport, which started off exactly like one of East Hill's only I just couldn't leave it alone:

http://www.xeney.com/images/bikes/mixte.jpg

"Flying Dutchman" ... only don't look that up, because it is not either of the vintage bikes sold under that name; this is a German bike sold by a local bike shop in Los Angeles in the 70s, and they sold it with custom decals. About half the components on it were replaced some time in the 80s, I think. I bought it for $40 at a thrift store:

http://www.xeney.com/images/bikes/flyingdutchman.jpg

Puch Pathfinder. This picture does not do it justice but unfortunately I don't have a photo of it in its current state. I think I beat East Hill out of this one on eBay ... sorry! It is a new old stock frame, and it is gorgeous. I have it built up with Nitto bullhorns and a very pretty Nitto stem, a honey Brooks saddle, a Sugino single speed crank, and track wheels. It still lacks tires, cables, and a front brake. It also needs a new bottom bracket even though it was never ridden. I put the project on hold when I stopped riding at five months pregnant, but I really need to throw it in the car and get it down to the bike shop for the bottom bracket work:

http://www.xeney.com/images/bikes/puch1.JPG

[crazycanuck]

Sorry to hijack this thread..

Xeney-how are you??? Are you doing well with your little one???

Take care

C

[sandra]

the fourth is a piece of crap that I'm going to give away eventually.

Sandra, who is so excited and suddenly obsessed with mixtes raises her hand and volunteers to take the piece of crap. :D

[divingbiker]

I have four mixtes but I only have photos of three of them ... the fourth is a piece of crap that I'm going to give away eventually.

On Grant Petersen's Tips For Happy Riding (http://www.rivbike.com/article/misc/tips_for_happy_riding), he says "Don't ever describe any bike, no matter how inexpensive or dilapidated, as "a piece of crap." I kinda felt bad that when I ordered my bike from him, I had called my old commuting bike a piece of crap. He didn't yell at me or anything, but now I try to be a bit nicer to the not-so-gently-used bikes.

[East Hill]

I have four mixtes but I only have photos of three of them ... the fourth is a piece of crap that I'm going to give away eventually.

Nishiki Sport, which started off exactly like one of East Hill's only I just couldn't leave it alone:

http://www.xeney.com/images/bikes/mixte.jpg

"Flying Dutchman" ... only don't look that up, because it is not either of the vintage bikes sold under that name; this is a German bike sold by a local bike shop in Los Angeles in the 70s, and they sold it with custom decals. About half the components on it were replaced some time in the 80s, I think. I bought it for $40 at a thrift store:

http://www.xeney.com/images/bikes/flyingdutchman.jpg

Puch Pathfinder. This picture does not do it justice but unfortunately I don't have a photo of it in its current state. I think I beat East Hill out of this one on eBay ... sorry! It is a new old stock frame, and it is gorgeous. I have it built up with Nitto bullhorns and a very pretty Nitto stem, a honey Brooks saddle, a Sugino single speed crank, and track wheels. It still lacks tires, cables, and a front brake. It also needs a new bottom bracket even though it was never ridden. I put the project on hold when I stopped riding at five months pregnant, but I really need to throw it in the car and get it down to the bike shop for the bottom bracket work:

http://www.xeney.com/images/bikes/puch1.JPG

First off, yes, how are you doing, Xeney? Glad to see you back!

I really like the changes you've made on the Sport mixte, especially the saddle. I still prefer drops on all my bikes, but I like the colour of the grips on yours. The original black foam on mine is comfortable, but makes the bike look oh so heavy.

That Puch is a real beauty! But, sad for the eBay seller, I hate to fight with a fellow forum member over a bike if I know that someone I know wants it :p . We need to see some updated photos, even if it's not complete :) .

East Hill

[xeney]

Hi, everybody! I am doing well although I still have not been back on a bike ... just not enough time when someone else can stay with the baby. My mom is coming for two weeks tomorrow and my husband and I are hoping to do some mountain biking while she's here, and if I can ever get time to pump up the tires and lube the chain on the pink mixte I am going to start using it to run a couple of regular errands on the days when my husband is home to stay with Penelope. I have also found a couple of new cycling friends who also have young babies, so I am hoping that we can coordinate some riding time eventually. And maybe eventually have some kid and trailer rides together.

And Penelope, of course, is just awesome.

Regarding pieces of crap: eh, Grant Peterson is not the boss of me and this bike is a piece of crap. It is another Nishiki mixte but it is remarkably inferior to the pink one, plus it is very banged up. I think it's structurally unsound which is why I haven't passed it along. We have partially stripped it for parts, though -- the wheels were okay and the crank was salvageable.

[East Hill]

Regarding pieces of crap: eh, Grant Peterson is not the boss of me and this bike is a piece of crap. It is another Nishiki mixte but it is remarkably inferior to the pink one, plus it is very banged up. I think it's structurally unsound which is why I haven't passed it along. We have partially stripped it for parts, though -- the wheels were okay and the crank was salvageable.

Glad to see that you and the baby are doing well :) . You must plan on getting her on a bike as soon as she can keep her head up and all that good stuff!

Are you talking about the later Nishiki mixte, the one with the odd bulge on the side? It's strange how we both wound up with the same Nishiki mixtes, same colours, and kept the same one, and got rid of the same one :p .

East Hill

[xeney]

Yeah, that is the one. Mine has also had a rough life on top of its unfortunate appearance.

Penelope turned out to be a tiny little thing so we aren't sure she'll be big enough to wear a helmet when she's a year old, unfortunately. We had hoped to be able to get her into the trailer a little earlier than one year, even, but then she turned out to be itty bitty so we are probably not going to push it. She is quite strong in spite of being so small, so you never know, but I don't think we'll find a helmet to fit her until she's at least two, anyway. (That is unfortunately true of most babies.)

[East Hill]

... but then she turned out to be itty bitty so we are probably not going to push it. She is quite strong in spite of being so small, so you never know, but I don't think we'll find a helmet to fit her until she's at least two, anyway. (That is unfortunately true of most babies.)

A wise decision...

East Hill

[mimitabby]

Xeney, did you ever see the congratulations thread (that I started) about your having a baby? we'd love to see pictures of her (besides the one you already shared)

[Julie V]

Gotta jump in here with a Grand Jubilee Motobecane I fixed up for my mother. She's scared to ride it so I've put the road bars back on and will use it to commute. I love mixtes and enjoy seeing everyones.

[East Hill]

What a beautiful Motobecane! We gotta teach you to take the photo with the other side showing, though :p .

(we love looking at the drivetrains...)

East Hill

[KnottedYet]

Man, I wanna mixte!
(gonna ride one this weekend)

[Julie V]

You're right East Hill, how's this?:)

[Trek420]

You're right East Hill, how's this?:)

beautiful!! Ok, now I want fenders :cool: BTW, welcome to TE :)

[Julie V]

Thanks Trek for the welcome, it's nice to see what the girls are doing bike-wise!

[KnottedYet]

Julie, that is SUCH a beautiful bike!

(did I mention that I want a mixte? did I? Huh? Huh? don't ask me where I'll put it, though...)

Knot-already-has-enough-bicycles-and-must-exercise-restraint

[sandra]

Knot, how many bicycles DO you have? I now have TWO!

[Julie V]

Knot, do you check Craig's List and Ebay for mixtes as soon as you get up in the morning? I do, it's sick but it's sort of like a treasure hunt except that I have 3 so I need to stop there. (I'm trying to put up a Bianchi SS in the For Sale Forum now.)

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I have just one bike, first one since I was a kid 40 years ago....and I won't get my second bike for another 5 or 6 months. :eek:
I am the queen of restraint....but only with bikes. I make up for it with biking clothes.
:rolleyes:
(Though much of my biking clothes are worn every day too, like the wool stuff, base layers, vests, and tights)

You guys are totally out of control! =8-O

[KnottedYet]

I have two bikes.

SKnot has one, but it was mine for a week.

I am a serial monogamist when it comes to bikes, except now I am a bigamist.

Gotta stop at bigamy, cuz polygamy could just cause problems... (but I want a recumbent again, and a tandem, and a mixte, and an Xtracycle)

[East Hill]

You're right East Hill, how's this?:)

Much better! Really shows off the beauty of the lines, too :D .

East Hill

[sandra]

Here (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=160166683847&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:PIC&ih=006) is a good nice clean single tube mixte for someone that needs a smaller frame, 49 cm. Somebody grab it!

[Tri Girl]

I'm watching that 49... it's just my size (well, I ride a 48, but it would probably work).
Now I'm just wondering how I'll explain to my future divorce lawyer how ANOTHER bike was worth it. ;)

[sandra]

Yes, it will probably work. I ride a 52 and my mixte is a 53. I hope you get it. It looks like it is in great shape.

[Trek420]

Yes, it will probably work. I ride a 52 and my mixte is a 53. I hope you get it. It looks like it is in great shape.

I don't know if mixtes are more flexible, I'm 5'1" and my mixte fits just fine, Knotr's 5'8" and here she is on the same bike with the seatpost out a bit of course.

[KnottedYet]

That's one fuuuuuun bike to ride!

Really got a kick out of just cruisin' the single-speed.

(I especially liked the part where I passed a Biker Dude going uphill.);)

[Trek420]

I liked that too :D

[KnottedYet]

I want a mixte, I want to make it a single-speed like Trek's.

I could rationalize this by saying I was getting it so Trek and others could borrow it when they're in Seattle.

Or I could say I was gonna do this instead of getting a tattoo.

anyway, I'll let the fates decide.

If anyone runs across a good mixte frame in good condition, size 52cm or less (30-ish inches virtual standover or less) in the Seattle area, please give me a holler. Especially if it's less than $100.

I wanna try the conversion myself, so probably not a French frame with the odd bottom-bracket requirements... (we'll see how long this idea lasts!)

:D

[sandra]

If you could use a 48 grab this (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220160975959&ssPageName=ADME:B:SS:US:1123)!

[Tri Girl]

Here's another 48cm frame:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Vintage-Ross-Frame-54cm_W0QQitemZ330178089749QQihZ014QQcategoryZ98084QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem


Just PLEASE- nobody out-bid me on the bike I'm bidding on. I'm sooooo trying to win it. :eek: I don't want to show you the bike or you might have to have it (it's a beauty- er... I mean- it's ugly and you don't want it).

[sandra]

yeah. I hate it. You don't want to bid on that bike. :D

[DebW]

If you could use a 48 grab this (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220160975959&ssPageName=ADME:B:SS:US:1123)!

Note that the left bottom bracket up on this one needs a lock ring.

[sandra]

Note that the left bottom bracket up on this one needs a lock ring.

Please explain. I don't notice and understand all of this stuff yet.

[teigyr]

Yes, the Raleigh is actually too large for me as well...anyone need a nice red Raleigh mixte?


East Hill

Um....HOW much larger? Am looking for another bike ---

[sandra]

too late. It went to live with Mimi.

[teigyr]

d'oh! I probably would've been too tall anyway.

[KnottedYet]

If you could use a 48 grab this (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220160975959&ssPageName=ADME:B:SS:US:1123)!

Oh migawd. beautiful!

Good thing I don't have an Ebay acct, or paypal, or have the foggiest idea how to work Ebay.

[Tri Girl]

Oh, I can teach you Knot! I can teach you the ways of eBay... there's always room for one more buyer... ;)

[KnottedYet]

I got a dose of reality about my tiny apartment and my burgeoning bicycle population. I need to get one of those wall racks that stacks up 2 bikes before I get another bike.

But I'm keeping my eyes open for some local mixtes, and I'm gonna ask my LBS guys to keep their eyes out, too. (they sell a lot of used bikes www.recycledcycles.com )

Anybody got a favorite stacking rack that will also hold a mixte or slanted top-tube bike?

[Trek420]

I got a dose of reality about my tiny apartment and my burgeoning bicycle population. I need to get one of those wall racks that stacks up 2 bikes before I get another bike.


But you have 3 bikes already and sKnott will want another bike for the H.S. bike club soon I bet. Go for a 4 bike rack :)

[uforgot]

I use one of those frame adapters. Works great. I got mine at Nashbar a couple of years ago, but I notice that lots of places have them now. I need to get more of them. Very handy.

frame adapter (http://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?category=600071&subcategory=60001022&brand=&sku=10637&storetype=&estoreid=&pagename=Shop%20by%20Subcat%3A%20Car%20Rack%20Accessories)

[uforgot]

Here's one in San Jose:

mixte (http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/bik/454607677.html)

[uforgot]

Seattle:

This one is a Mixie, not a mixte. Guess it's for when you want to mix it up.

mixie (http://seattle.craigslist.org/tac/bik/454611138.html)

this one's a little pricey:
Nishiki (http://seattle.craigslist.org/kit/bik/451680834.html)

Raleigh (http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/bik/453485034.html)

[dex]

A couple of Seattle listings...
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/bik/453485034.html
http://seattle.craigslist.org/sno/bik/448189795.html

[uforgot]

I almost didn't click on it. Advertised as a flat bar road bike:

Takara (http://seattle.craigslist.org/sno/bik/451248764.html)

[uforgot]

A couple of Seattle listings...
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/bik/453485034.html
http://seattle.craigslist.org/sno/bik/448189795.html



That explains why it's listed as a flat bar road bike. Sold the mens and didn't bother with the description.

[sgtiger]

Good thing I don't have an Ebay acct, or paypal, or have the foggiest idea how to work Ebay.


Yes, a very good thing because I can see this ebay things as becoming addicting. I was looking for bicycle themed espresso/cappuccino cups but instead I found this:

http://i2.ebayimg.com/01/i/000/ae/c1/323e_1.JPG?set_id=7

Ding, ding! I can't wait to put it on my bike!

Of course I looked at bikes, too. :eek: Barely made it off the site without bidding on one. Fortunately the ones I liked were not my size. Whew!:rolleyes: ;) :p

Sorry about the OT

[KnottedYet]

Treeeeeek? Dearrrrrrie? How do you feel about wandering over to San Jose this weekend? ;) :D

[sgtiger]

Arghhhhh! I just noticed the posts above mine. And, well, I had to click on the links. Major droolage going on. You women are E-V-I-L! That blue Raleigh sure is pretty though. Hmmm.... Luckily, it's kind of big. But only a little, I think!

[KnottedYet]

A couple of Seattle listings...
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/bik/453485034.html
http://seattle.craigslist.org/sno/bik/448189795.html

Ok, of the Takara and the Raleigh (both are within easy drive for me to pick them up) which would be the better one for me to get to make a single speed? I know nothing about Takara. (but at least it has all the parts)

Edit: Takara dude still has the mixte. It's *really* my size, wonder if it'd fit Trek?

[teigyr]

Knot, if you look at the Takara and it's nice (or decide it's a good bike, I've never heard of them either) I'd be willing to go in on both of them with you. It would be slightly cheaper and I need a "kicking around" bike. I could take the mens, I'm not *that* picky :)

I'm not all that savvy on finding a good used bike though so I trust your judgment.

[East Hill]

The 25.4cm (Note--not 'inches' as per the ad) seatpost on the Raleigh indicates that it's high tensile steel, rather than cro moly. It also needs some work done on it.

My guess is that the Takara would be a better choice. I also like the orange colour :) .

Edit: You might want to check the Takara for a steel composition label, but I still think it's a more likely buy than the Raleigh.

East Hill

[uforgot]

Treeeeeek? Dearrrrrrie? How do you feel about wandering over to San Jose this weekend? ;) :D

Ok, ok, at first I was mixed up on who was where...:)

[uforgot]

and you can stop by for this on your way...

bike rack (http://seattle.craigslist.org/est/bik/454582482.html)

[KnottedYet]

Was at my LBS for other things, and told them about the mixte ss I wanna do. (but really shouldn't. I'm having such mixed feelings right now! I don't ride my own bikes enough as it is!)

LBS said Takara is a pretty good older brand, and would be comparible in quality to the Raliegh.

Some tall chickie (hmmm.... Teigyr?) needs to go get that orange mixte. So far I'm the only one who's called about it, so chances are good that if you call him now and tell him you're interested, you'll be in luck. He's in North Everett. Not far.

It has stem shifters ("crotch killers") but you could do some clamp-magic and move the shifters to the down tube or switch for bar-ends.

[teigyr]

Yes, I am interested in this bike :D Am awaiting a call back from DH to make sure we can get up to see it tomorrow.

This guy is also selling a Chimo. I'm not finding much on it online. It's steel and lugged but that is all I know.

Update: Am meeting him tomorrow. He sounds like a very cool guy and he really knows bikes.

[East Hill]

Yes, I am interested in this bike :D Am awaiting a call back from DH to make sure we can get up to see it tomorrow.

This guy is also selling a Chimo. I'm not finding much on it online. It's steel and lugged but that is all I know.
I think you will find that the Chimo is a beast! It looks as if it even has cottered cranks (not a good sign), and the Sun Tour Honor was low end (mind you, it works pretty well, but it's still a low end derailleur).

Does seem to have nice mudguards though...

East Hill

[teigyr]

Yeah, I think we're not so big on the Chimo. It's a "girls" bike and it'd be for Sean. Sean wants a Raleigh or Schwinn but the guy selling the bikes also has others at his shop.

I hope I like the Takara :D I wouldn't be doing mega-riding like East Hill does on her mixte's but I would take it out a lot in the winter.

[Trek420]

and you can stop by for this on your way...

bike rack (http://seattle.craigslist.org/est/bik/454582482.html)

Knott, that sounds perfect for your place. :)

[Tri Girl]

Dang- you Seattle ladies have some awesome bikes on Craigslist up there. I would buy so many- it's probably good I don't live there.
There was only one bike on our Craigslist, and I bought it. Was an old hot pink steel framed Huffy. Heavy as all get out, but for $5 I had to buy it and tinker with it.
Might not be worth fixing up. May be spending more getting it road ready than it's worth. :(

I got outbid on the pretty mixte bike I was bidding on eBay, so I bid on another. Not a mixte, but oh well. For $10 plus SH, I can make a fine cruiser out of it. A mixte will come along some day...

[teigyr]

This one looks good and I like the guy a lot. He is putting lights on it too :D He seems to know what he's doing and says that if I ever have problems with it, he'll fix it. I talked to him for a long time today, he knows a lot about bikes. Anyway, I guess I am destined to live a life of Orange!

[Trek420]

Dang- you Seattle ladies have some awesome bikes on Craigslist up there. I would buy so many- it's probably good I don't live there.

They have some awesome bikes in Seattle...period. My impression I think more people ride in CA because of our great weather thang .... but Seattle has more of a cycling culture of people really using bikes as transportation and part of their lives.

When there I saw a lot of really great bike set ups, custom, customized, great use of paniers, trailers used to take the laundry to the laundramat and not just the rows of identical road bikes and lycra on club rides (not that there's anything wrong with that:p :D :) ).

There may be more cyclists here in sunny CA (more people too) but it's more of a weekend/recreational thing I think.

[teigyr]

It is definitely more recreational in California (at least SoCal). When I first used to visit WA, I was impressed that the ferries had a "please do not walk in cleats" sign. I saw commuters on bikes in the rain. I'm not of that hardy stock but still, people do it. People use bikes for transportation here! California, for all it's lovely weather, is mostly bike illiterate. Strange.

I will say that there is still a lot to be done in WA, at least where I am. My SoCal riding was on wide streets with huge bike lanes. Here the streets/bike lanes seem much narrower and scarier. Maybe it's because this is city (old city) and I was from a sprawled out open area.

WA is cool in many ways. I just wish we could somehow meld the SoCal weather (without the extreme heat and brown) with the culture here.

[DebW]

Note that the left bottom bracket cup on this one needs a lock ring.


Please explain. I don't notice and understand all of this stuff yet.

A lockring is a thin circular piece with inside threads that is screwed over the left bottom bracket cup and tightened up agsinst the frame so that the cup holds its adjustment. The right cup (called the fixed cup) is screwed until it is tight or flush against the frame and can't be adjusted. The left cup is the one used to adjust the bearings, but it wouldn't stay in place without a lock ring to secure it.

[KnottedYet]

How difficult would it be to find a left lock ring to fit that Raleigh? Or would you have to replace everthing?

(I'm still thinking about that frame, wishy-washy Knot... I think it'd fit Trek and I both.)

Edit: whoops, too late! Wheels are sold. Now it's just the frame for $25. http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/bik/455225570.html I suppose I could offer $15, but the thought of trying to get wheels and everything is a little daunting... (though I could get recycled parts from my LBS)

Hey, DebW, what should I do?

[Trek420]

Hey, DebW, what should I do?

Knott & Dew, get it for $15, ship the frame to DebW and have her build you a freewheel :)

Consider when it comes to a mixte fixie that according to Chris the bottom bracket is lower to the ground which makes cornering problematic. You must not lean into the turn because there will come a day you're at an apex of the turn and your inside crank is down.

Best case scenario is it lifts the bike off the ground, worst is a fall/crash.

He says if I decide to try it fixed gear we'll put the bike on the stand first and get a feel for just hw far I can....and can't lean into a turn.

[DebW]

How difficult would it be to find a left lock ring to fit that Raleigh? Or would you have to replace everthing?

(I'm still thinking about that frame, wishy-washy Knot... I think it'd fit Trek and I both.)

Edit: whoops, too late! Wheels are sold. Now it's just the frame for $25. http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/bik/455225570.html I suppose I could offer $15, but the thought of trying to get wheels and everything is a little daunting... (though I could get recycled parts from my LBS)

Hey, DebW, what should I do?

The Raleigh is English, and the English threaded bottom bracket, while one on many versions in the 70s, is now the standard. A lock ring shouldn't be hard to find from a place like Recycled Cycles, but most shops would not carry it separately. You can get one here (http://www.loosescrews.com/index.cgi?d=single&c=Bottom%20Bracket&sc=Lockrings&tc=&item_id=LS-1005RC&id=998926811200) for $3. It also needs a headset locknut, again not too hard to find. The Weinmann centerpull brakes are quite adequate. Does it take 27" wheels? If so, it needs dedicated wheels and can't interchange with your other bikes. I'd say it's not a bad deal to grab that frame if you can. You don't have to build it up right away. Would you go singlespeed?

[DebW]

Knott & Dew, get it for $15, ship the frame to DebW and have her build you a freewheel :)


OK by me. Something to do this winter, and 2 new wheels to build. I've got a smattering of spare parts and Harris Cycles is a good source for vintage bits.

[Trek420]

OK by me. Something to do this winter, and 2 new wheels to build. I've got a smattering of spare parts and Harris Cycles is a good source for vintage bits.

whew :p I should not have volunteered you :rolleyes: and I'm sure you have a lot to do in the winter. snowshoeing, cross country ski ....

[KnottedYet]

Would you go singlespeed?

I would go singlespeed. I like to coast! No fixie for me!

[KnottedYet]

I emailed him offering $15 as-is or $20 if he has the left lockring.

DebW, how could you tell there was no left lockring?

[Trek420]

DebW, how could you tell there was no left lockring?

Because she's a jeenious!!!:D :)

[DebW]

I emailed him offering $15 as-is or $20 if he has the left lockring.

DebW, how could you tell there was no left lockring?

Because it wasn't there. He had a closeup picture of the left side of the bb.

[KnottedYet]

125mm rear spacing. I can't find a 125mm rear hub in Harris Cyclery's singlespeed hub list.

Is that going to be a problem? I know nothing about wheels...

Glad you saw the missing lockring! I guess that pic was in the original ad. bummer he sold the wheels already.

Oooh, will I get to buy a Surly Jethro Tool? I like Trek's... BTW Trek, be sure you tighten the nuts on the front wheel (and check the back wheel) again before you ride. They really did loosen up on me.

[DebW]

125mm rear spacing. I can't find a 125mm rear hub in Harris Cyclery's singlespeed hub list.

Is that going to be a problem? I know nothing about wheels...


It's likely 126 mm, which was the spacing for 6 speed freewheels. Easy to adjust the hub width by a few mm by chainging the spacers under the locknut. Or within a couple millimeters, you can just spread the frame by hand as you insert the hub.

[KnottedYet]

Dude selling the Raleigh frame says the left lockring is on the bike.

He'll sell me the frame for $20 without the brakes, $25 with the brakes.

sigh...

[Trek420]

Dude selling the Raleigh frame says the left lockring is on the bike.

He'll sell me the frame for $20 without the brakes, $25 with the brakes.

sigh...

I dunno Knott, he sounds like a real wheeler-dealer with this part by part thang. What are the odds of Recycled Cycles finding you a frame?

[sandra]

No kidding. I'm afraid it is going to be minus a fork next.

[sgtiger]

The Raleigh is pretty, but I don't think it's worth the hassle at this point. If you're not in a hurry I'm sure there will be something else coming along on Craigslist or Recycled. Just have to keep those peepers peeled for a good deal.

[Trek420]

No kidding. I'm afraid it is going to be minus a fork next.

Hee hee, right "I sold the fork, $20.00 for the frame, $25 for frame with the headbadge"

Well, it's nice to know that mixtes are fashionable again. :p

[KnottedYet]

I might be in line for a 50cm Motobecane mixte, with the paint already stripped....

<knot rubs hands gleefully>

I might have to contact Robinson Wheelworks to find out how to find a bottom bracket for the french threading pattern.

[Trek420]

I might be in line for a 50cm Motobecane mixte, with the paint already stripped....

<knot rubs hands gleefully>

I might have to contact Robinson Wheelworks to find out how to find a bottom bracket for the french threading pattern.

Why not bring it down :rolleyes: Would you re-paint it?

[Eden]

You could always check at 20/20 (at 2020 E Union) too - he specializes in rescuing old bikes. He doesn't restore them per say, but he finds them and will get them road worthy again. I'm not sure if he's got any mixtes right now, but it wouldn't suprise me.

oh and for all you pink lovers out there thinking about doing a ss/fixe conversion on you new mixte, he has quite the stock of these http://www.bikemania.biz/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=Sugino_RD_Pink metallic pink sugino crank sets...... (they are quite the match for the pink Chis King hubs/headsets....)

[sandra]

Here's one (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140170546147&ssPageName=ADME:B:SS:US:1123) for someone to watch.

[KnottedYet]

I could easily walk to 20-20 on my lunch break.

(I'm betting they'd be a much friendlier bike shop than Velo, and might not even scoff at middle-aged ladies with facial piercings who love bikes but don't know much!):rolleyes:

[dex]

And apparently 20/20 is where one of my friends sends anyone that brings a French bike into her shop. We were talking about my mixte a couple of weeks ago, and she immediately said that Alex (?...I'm blanking on the name now for some reason) at 20/20 would definitely be the person in town to see about it, as he works on a lot of older French bikes, and knows his stuff where their quirks are concerned. (I've promised myself that as soon as I save one more month worth of living expenses, I get to put money into the Mercier.)

[East Hill]

This one looks good and I like the guy a lot. He is putting lights on it too :D He seems to know what he's doing and says that if I ever have problems with it, he'll fix it. I talked to him for a long time today, he knows a lot about bikes. Anyway, I guess I am destined to live a life of Orange!


Oh, so you got it then?

East Hill

[sgtiger]

Teigyr...<knock,knock>....so did you go out to see the Takara today? Or did you do a bit too much partying last night? ;) :D Maybe you bought the mixte and are having so much fun you can't get off to post about it yet? :p

[Julie V]

check out this mint green Peugeot on ebay
[url]http://cgi.ebay.com/Peugeot-Grand-Sport-Mixte-Vintage-Bicycle

link's not working, my fault, but worth taking a look at

[KnottedYet]

Hey, Teigyr.... inquiring minds want to know!

(and what did you name her?)

[KnottedYet]

check out this mint green Peugeot on ebay
[url]http://cgi.ebay.com/Peugeot-Grand-Sport-Mixte-Vintage-Bicycle

link's not working, my fault, but worth taking a look at

I found it by searching "Peugeot". Very nice, oh my!

[Julie V]

I really like it too....looks like it's in really nice shape

[teigyr]

No name yet. The bike has some rusty spots and the guy did not do as much work as we thought. The chain has some kinks in it and it needs a serious cleaning. Here she is in all her glory! The cat is the first one brave enough to explore. He made sure to rub his face all over the rear fender.

[Tri Girl]

Dang, teigyr- that's one SMOKIN' bike! Yeeeeooowww! And the orange is really very pretty (and maybe it hides the rust a little?).

Your cat has the right idea...I'd be rubbing against it, too, if it were mine. ;)

Man, that's pretty! Have you ridden it yet?

[sandra]

I love that orange!

[KnottedYet]

Whoo-hooo! Whether he did a lot of work or not, I think you did good!

[teigyr]

Thanks :D

I always second guess what we're doing but when we went to a bike shop after (Recycled Cycles, for Knot!), one of the guys was saying that Mixtes go for much more usually.

Am not sure if this bike will be as knockaround as I thought. It will definitely be a project bike but I'm not so sure I want to have it be a thrasher bike. Am already imagining the restoration and what she will look like.

Dang. It's always something, isn't it :D

[GeoCam]

I like that orange bike, Teigyr!!

I have a Raleigh mixte that I am going to list as soon as I get some pictures taken. I think it is a 1985, but it is really nice and has barely been ridden. I bought it from the original owner who said she bought it when she was in college and just never rode it. LBS lubed and adjusted the bike and confirmed they did not think it was even broken in. To see a bike almost like it, search ebay for item 170159699626 (except I think he has the year wrong). I bought it almost a year ago when I knew nothing about anything. This bike is way too big for me or I would definitely keep it.

I'll be happy to answer questions if anyone is interested.

[Julie V]

Congrats on that Takara. Orange bikes are my favorite. Beautiful lugs and has fenders too.

[mimitabby]

Teigyr, what a beautiful bike! no fair, now you have two orange bikes, I only have one :D :D :D

congrats!

Hey i just got a brilliant idea! after you get this road worthy, the Seattle TE contingent ought to have a MIXTE RIDE!!!!

[Trek420]

Hey i just got a brilliant idea! after you get this road worthy, the Seattle TE contingent ought to have a MIXTE RIDE!!!!

Hey, no fair :p :) JK, good idea.

[East Hill]

Oh, that would be something to see! Wow, all of us on our mixtes...:D .

East Hill

[East Hill]

Oh, forgot--teigyr, that looks like a beauty! Is the chain kinked because of guck build up, or for some other reason? What about the tyres and cables (I almost always replace cables right away, although often the tyres are all right once the tubes have been replaced)?

East Hill

[sandra]

somebody should get this!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=330178089749&ssPageName=ADME:B:WNA:US:1123

[KnottedYet]

somebody should get this!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=330178089749&ssPageName=ADME:B:WNA:US:1123

Oh, lordee! If I wasn't faced with the possibilty of searching for tuition for private school for my little miscreant, I'd be all over that!

[sandra]

It's only 99 CENTS plus $25 shipping. You saved that on the cost of your flu shot. ;) Go for it. You can build it up later, s l o w l y.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Sandra, you are so BAD telling everyone to buy all these bikes!
Why don't YOU get it? :rolleyes:

I think you need to join BA and go to 12 speed meetings.

Hey, even if all these bikes were given away for FREE, we only have so much room and so much time/energy available for fixing them up. How many old bikes should one accumulate, after all?
I envision you one day with that falling down barn full of rusting old bikes, just like that guy you visited. :rolleyes: ;) :cool: :D :p

Plus, don't forget that many of us are already addicted to buying WOOL. :(

[uforgot]

I've already told Sandra that I see a business in her future:

"Mixtes by Sandra".

[sandra]

"Hello, my name is Sandra and I'm addicted to bicycles" :p

Lisa, I've checked into the 12-step meetings, but there are none in my area. :D Maybe I can find an online one. :D It's a good think I'm not a smoker or much of a drinker. I just might have an addictive personality. :eek:

[sandra]

oh yeah, I forgot to report. I'm so mad about that $5 rusted bike from the barn that I bought. First off, when I cleaned it, most of the paint washed off. I found out those are supposed to be some really good pedals on it. I got one off fairly easily. The other one I've sprayed with PB Blaster for a week. Even got my strapin' strong son to try it. He was trying to use a wrench and a "cheater bar" and it popped off and him in the cheek. I told him to forget it. That pedal is not going anywhere. :o

[uforgot]

"Hello, my name is Sandra and I'm addicted to bicycles" :p

Lisa, I've checked into the 12-step meetings, but there are none in my area. :D Maybe I can find an online one. :D It's a good think I'm not a smoker or much of a drinker. I just might have an addictive personality. :eek:

What happened to "financing my addiction?"

[sandra]

To finance my addiction, I'd have to work more. If I work more, I'd never have time to admire and ride my bike. It's a vicious cycle. :D

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I just bought more shoes and more wool this week. I know DH is trying hard to restrain himself from commenting. What a man. :cool:

(of course, he is always getting some bike part or another in the mail...so perhaps it evens out a little- though I think my stuff costs more)

[sandra]

I'm so thankful I don't need wool. I DO love shoes though.

[teigyr]

Oh, forgot--teigyr, that looks like a beauty! Is the chain kinked because of guck build up, or for some other reason? What about the tyres and cables (I almost always replace cables right away, although often the tyres are all right once the tubes have been replaced)?

East Hill

The chain is kinked up because links are frozen. Who knows when the last time the chain was replaced. DH will be working on it so I won't be riding it for a few weeks at least. This is a dangerous hobby :D

For a Mixte ride, we will (DH and I) need another Mixte so he can go along. Didn't I see something about a Raleigh in here???

hrmmmm....

[alicestrong]

Hellooo Ladies! :) May I present for your consideration...my mixte...a 1977 Motobecane Grand Touring. Hi East Hill... :D

http://www.geocities.com/alicestrong/MotoGrand.jpg

[KnottedYet]

Oooh, pretty Motobecane!


!!!!SEATTLE MIXTE ALERT!!!!

Today, at Recycled Cycles, Trek420 and I saw a sweet (but slightly battered) 48cm baby-blue Nishiki mixte 12 spd for $85. www.recycledcycles.com 206-547-4491

I was ready to buy it *right that very moment* but Trek420 talked me out of it. 'cuz basically there is NOWHERE in my little 900 sq ft apartment to put another bike!

It had stem-mount friction shifters, SunTour parts mostly. New generic rims and tires.

sigh...

[xeney]

Alice, that is a gorgeous Motobecane. My husband found that same frame on eBay and was really disappointed when I lost that auction.

[Trek420]

I was ready to buy it *right that very moment* but Trek420 talked me out of it. 'cuz basically there is NOWHERE in my little 900 sq ft apartment to put another bike!
sigh...

sKnott and I agreed her next shopping extravaganza is bike racks. :p :D :cool:

[KnottedYet]

Two against one, no fair!

[Trek420]

Two against one, no fair!

We only want what's best for you....room for more bikes. :p ;) :D

[KnottedYet]

Then you'd better not look....

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=280169876470

[sgtiger]

Then you'd better not look....

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=280169876470


<sigh... drool,drool.... sigh> :rolleyes:

[KnottedYet]

xeney - buy the Ebay Puch/Austro-Daimler mixte, and if it doesn't fit you I'll buy it from you.

[sandra]

Knotted, you are killing me trying to get everybody to buy that bike so you can buy it from them. :D

[alicestrong]

Thanks for the compliments directed towards my Moto....:)

Wow that eBay mixte is sick...

There's a little grey mid 80's KHS mixte at my local used bike sellers. CroMo frame, Suntour Cyclone RD...should I snap a pix next time I'm there? :D

Hey, where is East Hill anyway?

[KnottedYet]

Knotted, you are killing me trying to get everybody to buy that bike so you can buy it from them. :D

confession: <whisper> I don't know how to do eBay </whisper>
AND... I'm under strict orders NOT to buy another bike until I find room for it in my apt!

[sandra]

OK! he has changed the auction and added "make and offer"! Somebody go in and make one.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=280169876470

[alicestrong]

I don't believe the Austro-Daimler Michelle was a very high end model...what kind of steel is the frame? Is it just Hi-ten? He wants a bit too much I'd say...

It's nice, but then I like almost any mixte. :D

I like the one in my LBS. He only wants $150. It's not real minty but it's solid. Tuned with new tires...north road bars.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

My 2 cents on a few things I see:
The new shifters are lame. Also what's with the hood/brake setup, is that normal? They look kind of deformed, like a hospital cast. I'd prefer this shifter/brake setup for the nice existing moustache bars it has:
http://blog.lib.umn.edu/thil0020/carfreelife/hatta8.jpg
Those changes would cost some money, no doubt.
And the bottle cage was put hanging on the front because they wanted the pump on the frame where a bottle cage would normally go. Looks like it has plenty of tire clearance in the brakes to take nice wider tires 34-38's that wouldn't get many flats anyway, so you could put a smaller portable or a CO2 pump in a seat bag instead hauling the big pump everywhere with you.

Noteworthy also is the very short stem on there- must be a 4-5mm reach stem. I had one of those 5's and it made the bike jittery to steer. Hopefully you could put at least a 7 on there.

[uforgot]

I honestly like this one (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=230189122228&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT&ih=013) much better!

[sandra]

I honestly like this one (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=230189122228&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT&ih=013) much better!
Me too! Somebody buy it so Knotted can buy it from you! :D

[xeney]

Does she want a single speed? That centurion needs a new crank, I think -- the way the chain rings are set up makes it look like they just used the old one, and they had to leave the big ring on even though it's not being used anymore. Not as pretty as having a single chain ring up front. And the auction says that's a Motobecane crankset? On a Japanese bike? Huh.

My husband has a similar Centurion (not a mixte) from 1975 and that thing is a tank. It is one of the heaviest bikes in our armada.

I'd have to go downstairs and see the label on my Puch, but it has the same steel tubing sticker as the AD and it is the lightest mixte frame we have, significantly lighter than either of the Nishikis. And I did research it a bit and although I couldn't find a photo, I found a couple of discussions of the Michelle model and they both referred to an unusual handlebar/brake setup, so that could be original.

I think I will make an offer and see if he bites. I don't think it's a $250 bike, or at least it is not a bike that I need for $250.

[KnottedYet]

I think I will make an offer and see if he bites..

Yay!!!! Now I can sleep at night, knowing that gorgeous bike (details like brake levers etc can always be changed) isn't pining away for a new home!

[sandra]

Yay!!!! Now I can sleep at night, knowing that gorgeous bike (details like brake levers etc can always be changed) isn't pining away for a new home!

If you would get rid of your bed, you would have room for more bikes!!!:D

[xeney]

Nope, he wants more than I am willing to pay. Sorry, Knot!

[KnottedYet]

Oh, well...

[alicestrong]

This is the 80's KHS mixte in the used section down the street...it was dusk when I took the pic so it's not too detailed. It has a nice lugged frame and forks...shimano sidepulls..

http://www.geocities.com/alicestrong@sbcglobal.net/khsmixte.jpg

[sandra]

:eek: So did you buy it????

[alicestrong]

Oh please help me no...I'm trying to quit...:D

Just admiring it. It's a smaller frame anyway...I think it has potential. Horizontal dropouts, too.

[nic840]

What do you think of this...

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/bik/472827192.html

Really cool Mixte made in Japan. 1976 Azuki Gran Sport. 53cm frame. 10-speed. Shimano 600. all Aluminum parts, steel rims. may need a new chain, or clean up/oil this one.
40.00

Good deal??? Looks clean!

[sandra]

Looks like a good deal to me if you can ride a 53. I'd definitely go check it out.

[nic840]

I am sure this has been answered before but...are the mixte sizes comparable to roadbike sizes?? I ride a 52-54 in roadbike...My roadbike frame is a Medium...comparable to a 53.

Fun project bike!

[DebW]

What do you think of this...

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/bik/472827192.html

Really cool Mixte made in Japan. 1976 Azuki Gran Sport. 53cm frame. 10-speed. Shimano 600. all Aluminum parts, steel rims. may need a new chain, or clean up/oil this one.
40.00

Good deal??? Looks clean!

Stay away from that one. You don't want steel rims. The tires are old. The rear deailleur is shot (no spring tension). Front brakes have no pads and levers aren't good. Maybe the frame is OK, if you're willing to completely rebuild it. But don't buy it thinking that you can ride it as is. A tune up won't help this thing.

[nic840]

Thanks for the heads up...I have just been reading and seeing all of your nice bikes and had to see what the fuss is about.
I need another bike like a hole in the head... or is a hole in the head what my husband will do to me when I buy another bike...yeah time to stop looking for anything that will fill up more space in the garage/shop!

[alicestrong]

$40 is pretty cheap. I have picked up bikes like this and it's no biggie to put new tires on, brake pads are cheap...a chain isn't bad $10...new bar tape. You are right it's a "project bike". The chrome and paint look decent...I like the crank and pedals...

Hard to say without actually seeing the bike...

I enjoy cleaning up, waxing, polishing...:D

[xeney]

To answer the question above: no, mixte sizes are not comparable, partly because nobody knows how to measure them and partly because the dimensions are just radically different. I think we measured my pink mixte out as a 54, and it's big for a mixte, but it is teeny compared to the other 54s we have around. When it had the original drop bars it was way too small for me.

Deb is wise, and that frame is probably pretty heavy, too.

[Trek420]

I enjoy cleaning up, waxing, polishing...:D ...... as long as it's just bikes :rolleyes: :cool: ;)

[KnottedYet]

I need to stop looking at this thread, cuz it's just gonna get me into trouble....

[uforgot]

She has a new vintage brown Brooks saddle, handlebars, reflective sidewall tires and bartape. I went with the brown cloth tape and shellac and was extremely pleased with the results, although I didn't know to thin it at first, so I used steel wool on it, and lo and behold, I loved the look the steel wool gave it. This winter I'll pull out the bottom bracket and regrease and I have a new chain to put on her.

[sandra]

Ooooh. I love it. Great pictures in the outside lighting. Your brakes look like mine without rubber hoods. How do you wrap around them? (just as close as you can get or what?)

[KnottedYet]

Nice job! I like what you did with the bar tape! Very classy, and matches so nicely.

[uforgot]

Since there are no rubber hoods, I just wrapped close. On my road bike, there are hoods so you have to cut a piece and insert it first. Here's (http://www.parktool.com/repair/readhowto.asp?id=71) where I first learned how to wrap them. I keep changing colors so much that I can wrap in no time flat now!

[Tuckervill]

Hey, is your seat clamp backwards?

It looks really nice. :)

Karen

[uforgot]

Hey, is your seat clamp backwards?

It looks really nice. :)

Karen

Yup, sure is! Sometimes I'm such a dork!

[ibcycling]

So.....there's an old mixte at the Goodwill. Do I really need to buy it and start a bike collection? I know nothing about fixing up old bikes or what to look for. I'm not even sure what I'd do with the darn thing! It's blue and says Vulcan on it, pretty neat frame. Maybe I'll see if it's still there tomorrow.

Lora

[divingbiker]

I am so pathetic when it comes to red bikes, especially mixtes. Today I saw this bike on Craigslist for $100--the headline said "sparkly red", and that was what set me off--and e-mailed the seller about it. I don't really need another mixte, and the timing probably won't work out because I'm leaving town tomorrow and he needs to drum up rent money, but it looks so sweet! Oh well, we'll see if it's still available next Thursday when I get back to town...

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee64/divingbiker/bike%20photos/redmixtecraigslist.jpg

[KnottedYet]

Buy it!!!!!!

[withm]

WOW~! what size is it?

If you don't buy it, I might! I too am a sucker for a red bike (unless it's blue).

[divingbiker]

Knotted, I probably will buy it if it's still available on Thursday, but I'm headed for the airport so sooner isn't possible. Withm, the ad (http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/bik/515766836.html) doesn't give a size but it says for 5'6'-6'. The pic makes it look like a fairly large bike. If I can't buy it, I hope you can!

[xeney]

This morning my husband surprised me by presenting me with my finished bike!

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2384/2136230950_a8fb77b72e.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/xeney/2136230950/)

This is the bike we've been building since the spring, but what with school and the new baby, we put it on hold. I got to ride it this morning -- it's not a perfect fit, that Brooks B17s definitely has to go (it's too short, I'm going to get a regular B17 or else steal back the Team Pro I gave my husband), and the rear brake needs one more tiny part. And I really wish we'd been able to find a lugged fork, but the swap to 700c wheels made that impossible.

Still, I think it's awfully sweet and I was totally surprised.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2275/2136231648_e5e0103e93.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/xeney/2136231648/)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2329/2135453321_81c9430ce2.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/xeney/2135453321/)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2393/2136233772_6a2d933699.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/xeney/2136233772/)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2228/2135455913_90f3dedd4a.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/xeney/2135455913/)

[xeney]

Forgive the double post but I have two more better pictures from my husband's camera:


http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2091/2136261664_a1e333376e.jpg (http://flickr.com/photos/57531023@N00/2136261664/)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2044/2135482429_3b6fcf9775.jpg (http://flickr.com/photos/57531023@N00/2135482429)

(That's Jeremy, holding Penelope up to see if the reach is too long for her!)

[KnottedYet]

Gorgeous! And it looks like the reach is juuuuuust perfect! :p

You say you wish you could find a lugged fork? Surly makes some lovely lugged forks. Looks like your mixte is black. So is my Cross Check, and Surly sells black lugged forks that match the gloss black of the CC.

http://surlybikes.com/forks.html (sorry, you have to click the picture of the CC fork, it wouldn't let me link to it)

Maybe it would match your mixte?

[xeney]

Hey, that is not a bad idea. The guys at the bike shop had recommended a chrome fork because I didn't want to paint the frame, but I will see if I can get a Surly fork to match it. It came with a Peugeot fork that matched okay but did not actually fit, even with the 27" wheels. Thanks for the tip!

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Hey Xeney- GORGEOUS bike!!! :) :p :) :p
Hey, husband and baby are all gorgeous too!!!!! You are so lucky to have a partner who does wonderful bike things for you and encourages you. :D

I wonder why you chose those bars- can you tell us about them? One thing that strikes me when looking at the picture is that if you are hunkered down on the aero type bars, your girly bits are possibly going to be too squashed down onto the nose of your Brooks saddle.
Brooks saddles can be mighty uncomfortable when the rider is in an aggressively low aero/racing position. They tend to be most comfortable with a slightly more upright riding position in mind, so that your weight is largely back on your sitbones. If you have further trouble getting a Brooks to be comfy with your beautiful new bike, you may want to either try changing to a racing type saddle or changing body position by testing different bars. Just some thoughts. Squashed girly bits are no fun! ;)


P.S. that red mixte does look large- looking specifically at the head tube length, it looks similar to my husband's bikes, and he is 6 feet tall and rides 60cm frames.

[Triskeliongirl]

Brooks saddles can be mighty uncomfortable when the rider is in an aggressively low aero/racing position. They tend to be most comfortable with a slightly more upright riding position in mind, so that your weight is largely back on your sitbones. If you have further trouble getting a Brooks to be comfy with your beautiful new bike, you may want to either try changing to a racing type saddle or changing body position by testing different bars. Just some thoughts. Squashed girly bits are no fun! ;)
.

Lisa, I think it depends on which brooks saddle you ride. Mine is the finesse, which is a racing saddle, and I have no problem keeping my bars lower than my saddle and hunkering down in the drops. I think its the opposite, as long as your weight is supported on your sit bones and not girly bits, then you can roll your pelvis forward without pain. In my experience, the only thing that keeps me doing that is a bike with too long a top tube. When the top tube is too long, I have to raise the bars to decrease the reach, but that doesn't mean the position is optimal.

Xeney, I think she looks perfect!

[xeney]

It's actually a pretty upright ride -- very short cockpit there. No squashing of genitals. I have ridden a Team Pro on a much less upright road bike and that was the most comfortable saddle I've ever ridden. (And in fact I might put it on this one if I can get it back from my husband.)

I didn't choose the bars; he talked me into them, mostly for aesthetics. I wanted drop bars. I think these are gorgeous but they are going to take some getting used to -- the reach is fine, but steering is very different.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Lisa, I think it depends on which brooks saddle you ride. Mine is the finesse, which is a racing saddle, and I have no problem keeping my bars lower than my saddle and hunkering down in the drops. I think its the opposite, as long as your weight is supported on your sit bones and not girly bits, then you can roll your pelvis forward without pain. In my experience, the only thing that keeps me doing that is a bike with too long a top tube. When the top tube is too long, I have to raise the bars to decrease the reach, but that doesn't mean the position is optimal.


Oh, I see! I guess it's that I most often see complaints on TE about Brooks saddles squishing girly parts when women with racing bikes with really low bars try out the Brooks saddles. Seemed to me that they have the most problems getting comfy on Brooks. Maybe they would have done better with the Brooks Finesse?

I only have my limited experience- my bike has a top tube that's a bit too long for me, but it's also a more upright touring type geometry bike. I've always been comfy on it with my 2 Brooks saddles as far as that girly parts issue.

[Triskeliongirl]

What I have noticed is that when my reach is too long, that my body will scoot forward on my saddle to try and make up for it. That creates two problems. The first is that I may be so far forward that the saddle is no longer wide enough to support my sitbones where they hit, so the saddle supports the soft tissues instead. The second is that my knee falls too far forward of the pedal axle, reducing the leverage. So, for me the answer is a bike with proportional sizing, a top tube proportional to the seat tube. Sounds like a no-brainer, but often a problem on smaller sized bikes, as we have all discussed many times here, and why I ride terry bikes.

[KnottedYet]

I loved riding Trek420's mixte with the moustache bars, and really wanted a mixte of my own (mostly so I could put moustache bars on it, but also so I could look oh so gorgeous riding along)

Put moustache bars on my Surly Cross Check this weekend. Oh, man, what a cool set of bars! And on a bike that I already "knew", the difference in bars was amazing!

guess I should write a review?

(PS, I got steel bars. Dunno if it was the bar shape or the material, but the road buzz decreased by at least half in my hands!)

I still want a mixte, though...

[sandra]

Knot, how tall are you?

[KnottedYet]

Knot, how tall are you?

5 foot 8 inches.

[sandra]

will search for you a mixte. :D

[KnottedYet]

Thank you, but I really can't have one right now. I have nowhere to put it, and I don't ride the bikes I have enough as it is.

My sweetie has put me on a "no new bikes" diet, until we have a place with room for more bikes.

Thank you, though! :D

[sandra]

Actually I have one too many. I really need to get rid of one. But I don't think it would work for you for two reasons now. ;)

[KnottedYet]

Oh, P00P! If I could get one that fit me from a TE'er, I'd damm the torpedoes and grab it!

[Zen]

Sandra, how tall are you?
I really need a mixte. In fact, I've pretty much spent the evening searching for one. The only thing I've been able to come up with is a rusty Rene Herst.
Apparently I don't know the secret search terms.

[sandra]

I am 5' 5".

[7rider]

Hey, that is not a bad idea. The guys at the bike shop had recommended a chrome fork because I didn't want to paint the frame, but I will see if I can get a Surly fork to match it. It came with a Peugeot fork that matched okay but did not actually fit, even with the 27" wheels. Thanks for the tip!

Hey, Xeney. Nice bike. Have fun with it.
I haven't been following your build....is that SS or fixed?
Does the first set of pix (by the book shelves) have the old fork on it? It looks black in that first picture. Or is that just the light?

[xeney]

It's just the light -- we gave away the old fork when we replaced the headset.

It is built up as a singlespeed now because I am a chicken. The bike shop set it up fixed but I am not ready to make that leap. It's a flip-flop hub so I can change my mind later.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I really need a mixte. In fact, I've pretty much spent the evening searching for one. The only thing I've been able to come up with is a rusty Rene Herst.


Funny.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

What I have noticed is that when my reach is too long, that my body will scoot forward on my saddle to try and make up for it.

That's weird. My bike's top tube is a bit too long for me, but it causes me to want to scoot BACK with my saddle a great deal to compensate for my center of gravity being too far forward.
I am counting on my next bike to correct all this. :o

[Triskeliongirl]

Ah, Lisa, if you are trying to scoot back, that is probably to get your knee properly aligned with the pedal axis. Women have longer femurs than men, so I also have my saddle set up on a seatpost with as much set back as I can get, and prefer a bike with a shallow seat tube angle (yet oddly many womens and smaller sized bikes have steep seat tube angles. ) But, once my saddle is set up correctly, I will still try to move too far forward if my forward reach is too long (i.e. top tube, stem and bars together are too long). I think you moved you saddle back after installing a shorter stem and a shorter reach bar cuz you had properly adjusted your reach so that you could sit correctly on the bike.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

It's all connected. :)
I've been told by my new custom builder that my femurs are long compared to my shins and total height- thus the issue....fairly common for women.
Actually, I started with a 9 stem, then went to 5, then backed up to 7, which is about as good as I can dial in on my bike given all the other variables. And yes, a shallow seat tube angle is good for me.

[Triskeliongirl]

Yeh, cuz what I remember is you talked about pushing back after shortening your stem and bars, which is a good thing. But you are right, balance on the bike is important too, which is why even if the reach was better on the really short stem the handling may not have been. Obviously custom will take care of all of this for you. So excited to hear how you like her when she is done. Is the idea that the new bike will replace, or complement your ramboullet, i.e. will she be designed to carry stuff or be a go fast bike? You often talk about racing bikes as if they aren't comfortable. To me, if the bike fits you, it will be comfortable. If the bike is light, it will go fast. If the bike is strong, it can carry stuff. I personally think that if the frame geometry fits your body, then by swapping subtle things likes tires/wheelsets, the same bike can be used for go fast riding or light touring. But going light weight can make all the difference in the world for improving speed. As long as she uses one of the newer steels that are both strong and light weight (high strength to weight ratio), the bike should be able to do anything. That is how I feel about my reynolds 853 steel terry travel isis.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Yeh, cuz what I remember is you talked about pushing back after shortening your stem and bars, which is a good thing. But you are right, balance on the bike is important too, which is why even if the reach was better on the really short stem the handling may not have been. Obviously custom will take care of all of this for you. So excited to hear how you like her when she is done. Is the idea that the new bike will replace, or complement your ramboullet, i.e. will she be designed to carry stuff or be a go fast bike?

I want a second bike that will fit me better, go a bit faster for me, but also so that I won't be totally bikeless :eek::eek::eek: if something happens to one bike. I will keep the Rambouillet so that I have two working bikes.


You often talk about racing bikes as if they aren't comfortable. To me, if the bike fits you, it will be comfortable. If the bike is light, it will go fast. If the bike is strong, it can carry stuff. I personally think that if the frame geometry fits your body, then by swapping subtle things likes tires/wheelsets, the same bike can be used for go fast riding or light touring. But going light weight can make all the difference in the world for improving speed.

I agree with all of this....except perhaps that I might not be very comfortable in an aggressive low racing position no matter how well the bike fits- I am 53 1/2 and don't imagine cranking my neck up at 90 degrees will be much fun. ;) Since my goal is only to go maybe 12-14mph instead of my current 10 average (including the hills), I'm sure I can do this without a racing type bike, just by having a bike that is 20-25 lbs rather than 30, and by putting a little more time in on the bike anyway and getting stronger as I slowly have been.


As long as she uses one of the newer steels that are both strong and light weight (high strength to weight ratio), the bike should be able to do anything. That is how I feel about my reynolds 853 steel terry travel isis. She is. I can hardly wait!

Back to the subject of mixtes (sorry for the hijack)....
I keep wondering why it does not seem to be much of an issue about mixte frame sizes. Is it that people only use them for shorter errand riding, so that perfect fit is not much of an issue? Is it that they are so hard to classify and measure in terms of frame size? People seem to just buy them by eyeballing them without much concern over fit- I don't understand, since fit is SO important elsewhere on this forum when talking bikes. Am I missing something? Please 'splain this to me. :confused:

[divingbiker]

Back to the subject of mixtes (sorry for the hijack)....
I keep wondering why it does not seem to be much of an issue about mixte frame sizes. Is it that people only use them for shorter errand riding, so that perfect fit is not much of an issue? Is it that they are so hard to classify and measure in terms of frame size? People seem to just buy them by eyeballing them without much concern over fit- I don't understand, since fit is SO important elsewhere on this forum when talking bikes. Am I missing something? Please 'splain this to me. :confused:

Not sure I can explain it, but standover is not really a concern on mixtes so that takes one variable out of the equation. Grant at Rivendell put me on a 58cm bike when I bought my Glorius, and even though it's big it fits perfectly, albeit with less than a fistful of seat post showing. Mixtes seem to be much more forgiving when it comes to fit. You can adjust the reach with stems and bars, so somehow it seems to work out. I've ridden my Glorius for 30+ miles, and routinely ride 7 miles each way on my commute, so it's not exactly an errand bike.

(The sparkly red bike that I posted the picture of does look big, but the head tube is no larger than that on my Glorius. Will see it in person tomorrow.)

[xeney]

It's much easier to make a mixte fit with component adjustments than it is to do the same with a traditional frame. That said, I have a mixte that is so small that it was going to look really silly with the huge stem and seatpost I needed to make it fit.

As far as I can tell, though, most mixtes came in two sizes, small and smaller. My pink Nishiki is the largest mixte frame I've run across. I'm 5'6 and in its original configuration, it was a bit too small for me.

[sandra]

Xeney, please tell me what you are going to do to make yours fit.

I agree that it is much easier to make adjustments to mixte's, but I have one mixte too many and am considering selling one because it is a tad too small. It is a beauty of a bike and in mint condition with no scratches. I might not even know it was too small except that having two others now I can compare the difference.

I put a longer seatpost on it and that made a lot of difference, but it still feels like my angle over the pedals is a little off. I'm curious to know what you are going to put on yours.

[xeney]

Well, I don't use drop bars on mine and I have both of mine set up as single speeds, so since I am ditching the stem shifters anyway it is pretty easy to replace the stem. Both of mine have Nitto stems chosen to change the fit -- on the pink mixte with the Albatross bars, I got a very tall stem because I wanted an extremely upright position.

This one is pretty close to exactly the fit I wanted, but I need a longer seatpost with more setback to get my knees in a better position. And also a different saddle -- the women's Brooks saddles really limit your fore/aft adjustability.

[sandra]

What seatpost and saddle do you recommend?

[xeney]

Sandra, that totally depends on your preferences, your riding style, and how well the bike fits you. Also the specifics of the bike, since the available diameters differ (mostly depending on how old the bike is, but you always have to measure).

Do you have a good LBS with good mechanics? They can be a lot of help.