Rebirth of the 1x1

BEFORE

AFTER

It seems appropriate that it was on Easter weekend that the Poor Mans Pug was dismantled and then reborn as a different bike.  There is nothing new on this bike; everything is from the PMP, the Fisher GED or the parts bin.  The Fisher is also out of commission, being replaced by the 1x1 which will get the studded tires mounted for winter ice rides.  For the non-snowy months, I wanted a bike that I can use to get around town quickly while also being able handle hopping curbs, riding down stairs, and taking dirt short-cuts.  I wanted something that was tough, simple and fast.  My errand bike is nice for errands, but it's geared low, and quite frankly, a bit beat down from the winter.  It isn't the bike I'd choose for a fast ride around the city on a warm summer evening.  That's what the new version of the 1x1 is for...

The new city bike is also the lightest bike I own at 29 lbs. (w/o the packs and water bottle).  The gearing is relatively high at 39x14, which makes it a pretty fast bike around town.  I've only taken it on one ride, and so far I like it.  I'm considering small tweaks to the gearing, the cockpit, and possibly a different fork and pack set-up, but this bike is great just the way it is.  I think it fulfills my requirements nicely... tough, simple, and fast.  I also like the aesthetics of the bike; big frame with small 26" wheels and huge rotors, singlespeed drivetrain, and it's almost all black.

The first ride on the newly configured 1x1 was Friday night.  I've been sick since mid-week, but the regular Friday Night Ride crew was doing a shorter ride this week, so I couldn't resist getting the bike finished and taking it out for a spin.  I finished the final adjustments on the bike, quickly got ready, and I was out the door...

It was good to be out riding on the "new" bike, but I don't think the ride did my recovery any good.  It sucked being sick for the holiday weekend, but I tried to make the most of it.  Hopefully the lungs will be clear again by next weekend.  

With the Poor Mans Pug decommissioned, I'm even more motivated to complete the custom fat bike project.  I've recently wrapped up a couple time-consuming projects, both personal and professional, that should allow me more time to put toward brazing practice and finishing the jig.