Quote Originally Posted by tjf9 View Post
This weekend, I experienced pinch flat #2 in my short racing career. I'll definitely be running higher tire pressures for the rest of the season, but I'm already thinking about next year's bike. This year's bike was a Craigslist buy - a basic Redline that someone's kid had outgrown. Next year, it will be a bike more of my choosing. So here's what I'm thinking so far:

  • Nicer (lighter) wheels - either tubular or tubeless
  • Rival or 105
  • I'm thinking of only running 1 chain ring in the front. I never shift, so it seems like a waste to carry 2
  • Lighter frame that fits me better - this one is a touch on the big side. Might have to go custom to make this happen
  • No more brakes on the top bar (not sure what those are called) I never use them


What would be on your bike if you were outfitting one from scratch?
I'm debating right now b/c mine is too small I believe. BTW, KrisL I'm nearly 5'4" and may sell my Jamis Nova frame/fork. It's not light but it is steel and it's real! I just realized after riding more that I think it's too small. Not sure if I'll try to ride the season out on it or not. I need to decide what to do and may just go Jake the Snake frame fork at 47 and move my stuff over to keep it cheap. I've just realized after much thought that both my road bike and my cross bike are a tad too small for me. I need some room to stretch out. I also want to be a bit more aggressive with the fit now that I ride more and race a bit.

If starting from scratch I'd seriously consider the single chainring too. I NEVER shift into that big ring and I run a 46/34! I'd maybe go with a 42 with some extra gearing in the back if that makes sense or is even possible. I don't have top bar breaks and don't see the need for them. In a perfect world I'd go Zipp 404 tubulars....someday....