This bike is the very definition of "parts bin build." The Easton seatpost, Race Face stem and XT/Mavic wheels have all seen time on various mountain bikes. The Dura Ace 7700 nine-speed shifters have been used on numerous road and cross bikes since 1998. Yes, 20 years old and still going strong.
In the rear I am using a Sram 11-32 nine-speed cassette with a very used XTR RD-M950 eight-speed derailleur. This baby dates back to 1996. I wouldn't call the shifting crisp by modern standards, but it works just fine.
Out in the wild I am enjoying the ride. The 40mm tires are about perfect for the rough roads around here.
I had forgotten how fun it is to hammer away on a dirt road with drop bars.
The riding position splits the difference between the cyclocross bikes I have owned in the past and the ridiculously high handlebar position of the Salsa Fargo I had. It really hits the sweet spot where I feel I can still put the power down yet feel comfortable on long rides. So far I really like this bike.
Later.
