Re: best ways to decrease weight

On 30 Aug 2005 21:54:45 -0700, bloocanary@xxxxxxxxx wrote:

>i have a specialized hard rock mt bike from way back in 1995, and would
>like to make some inexpensive changes to trim down its rock-like
>weight. what would give me the most bang for the buck? i do plan on
>switching to slicks for city (and trainer) use. as far as what
>inexpensive means ... i'm trying to do all this for about $100-150
>(probably mostly used components).
>
>i know i can spend a lot on titanium nuts and such, but i'm guessing i
>can do a lot for a little considering how heavy this thing is starting
>out at ...

Here's the problem, it got to be "heavy" by an accumulation of many parts, each
of which weighs just a bit more than it might. Start taking parts off and
you'll see what I mean. Pull the wheels and what's left will feel pretty light.
Heft each wheel and it's not so heavy either. Except maybe the back with that
clump of steel cogs on the hub. Your $150 might be enough to buy a lighter one
of those. The best way to take five pounds off that bike is to find 80 places to
remove an ounce, because no one component, even the frame, is going to be a
whole pound overweight.

OTOH, I doubt it really is heavy, a modern cross country race bike for a full
size guy comes in around 25 pounds. Go weigh this thing, if it's under 30 it
ain't heavy.

If you really want to do something with this bike, get a better saddle,
seatpost, bars, and bar-ends so that it fits perfectly and you'll have these
cool parts you like that can go on yoiur future lightweight bike and the better
fit and comfort will help more than downweighting.

Ron
.

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