Looking for advice: Alex Moulton -> Gravel tourer

[dimrub]

Hi folks!

I'm thinking of getting myself a rescue Alex Moulton (either frame or a full bike) and converting it to a modern gravel tourer. Wide flaired dropbar, 2x11 groupset (maybe a 105), nice modern brakes (rim, no crazy adventures here), 45 mil gravel tires, a B17 to rest my bum upon, the works. Are you knowledgeable folks aware of anyone pulling something like this off successfully? Any advice? In particular, which model(s) to be on the lookout for? I think, an ABP Land Rover edition might be a good start, but it seems AM had quite a few models over the years, so maybe I can expand the search.

If you happen to know of a particular frame for sale, so much the better. I'll be in London through July, and I'll be willing to travel if the treasure is worth the trip.

 

[Drago]

No advice, but looking forward to seeing the finished article.

 

[Sharky]

Check the OLN dimensions. I believe an older 1960's bike, using hub gears could be as little as 114mm.

Later models have much wider OLNs.

 

[Ian H]

Check the OLN dimensions. I believe an older 1960's bike, using hub gears could be as little as 114mm.

Later models have much wider OLNs.

I wouldn't do it with a Moulton, but an AM of the space-frame variety might just about work.

 

[dimrub]

I wouldn't do it with a Moulton, but an AM of the space-frame variety might just about work.

Thanks! Could you perhaps expand on this? Why do you think a Moulton is not a good donor?

 

[Ian H]

Thanks! Could you perhaps expand on this? Why do you think a Moulton is not a good donor?

Mostly to do with the strength and rigidity of a single spine-tube frame, especially an old one.

 

[dimrub]

Mostly to do with the strength and rigidity of a single spine-tube frame, especially an old one.

Makes sense, thanks. I'm only looking at the space frame variety.

 

[dimrub]

I might have a donor bicycle, fingers crossed. I am afraid to jinx it, but on the other hand, I do want to share the excitement. It's a 2016 TSR27 in what appears to be immaculate condition, well taken care of. It's a way nicer bike than I was aiming at, but no harm in that. A bit pity about the very good parts I'm going to take off it, but maybe I'll be able to sell them, so the difference in price is not as large - and also, its paintjob appears to be in great condition, so one less worry. I will be able to reuse the stem and perhaps even the brakes, definitely the saddle.

All that is standing between it and me is getting on a plane then coming out to collect it.

 

[dimrub]

The plan is coming together. Here's what it should look like eventually, give or take a few:

1. Base: 2016 XTR in great condition.
2. Wheelset: Silverock
3. Drivetrain:
   1. Bottom Bracket: Shimano Hollowtech
   2. Crankset: 130BCD 170mm cranks alloy
   3. Chainring: NW 50T
   4. Cassette: Shimano SLX 11s 11-42T
4. RD, brifters: SENSAH SRX
5. Brakes: mini-V Shimano BR-R353
6. Handlebar: 12 degree flare, 440mm
7. Tires: Schwalbe Billy Bonkers 38mm. Later on, if I see there's enough clearence, I might go wider.
8. Tubes: RideNow TPU

I'm leaving the Brooks saddle on, as well as the adjustable stem (for now at least). For touring, I'll get an original rear rack and an Alex Moulton touring bag. At 24L and waterproof, it's all I need to store my stuff (well, that, and the handlebar bag and two bottle cages).

On the other hand, a few things are coming off and will go on sale: the wheels, the RD (SRAM DD3), the handlerbar, the Ergon grips, the crankset. Maybe I can recoup a few pounds that way.

 

[dimrub]

I've got the bike!

The bike is just as seen on the photos, immaculate and well taken care of.
I even got a rear rack and a bag - for free!
All the parts are on their way to me too.