The Impossible Hybrid

[BiketoBasics]

There was a 2020 700c Surly Straggler for sale locally that I almost bought a few days ago, Salmon red. One other person had called on it earlier than I and they bought it.

Not sure if I would have found it suitable though, so am not crying over missing out. HOWEVER, it is just another case of an XL frame bike being snapped up fast around here due to lack of availability. I'd be happier with a lesser bike than the Straggler just so long as it met with needs.

The looking continues. I think it might just be time to work on the Cresta and 700c-ize it.

 

[Tootyred]

Why not buy a tourer or gravel bike and flat bar it?

I've just done a conversion on a genesis croix de fer....

It rides really well, plus they have good clearance.

Ok, you dont need to go as "retro stupid" as me and weld on canti mounts, but their xl frames are plenty big enough, especially if you add a riser bar to the party.

Its exceptionally capable, reasonably light (10.5kg as shown), 40c tyres (newer frames will do 50c), Reynolds steel, etc.