Ta chaps
It's not been tried in anger yet. When I built it I went for a plod down the road and the gear cable snapped about a foot from the shifter and had no spares
I got another yesterday and just had quick spin around the woodland tracks at the top of my street. I may sound slightly biased but it is brilliant. The tyres were fitted because I'm waiting for some 2.0s to arrive, these are 2.35 but don't half soak up the bumps, especially with the steel frame. It is still very nimble and surefooted even on those tyres.
The only thing I'm not too happy with are the north road bars. They just don't feel quite right. I may go to drops but that means buying new cable discs and I want to use these xt hydraulics. My lbs are supposed to be sorting me some Nitto Albatross bars but I've heard nothing yet. I could always stick some flats or risers on in the meantime. I may be changing the 44t for something a little easier off road. It's having some Marathons fitted soon and is going on a road trip with a light load, I intend to give it some stick!!
Overall amazing bike. Superb finish on the frame I just hope it stays that way!!
Can't wait for the winter weather now, studded tyres ready
and no I'm not taking the mudguards off!!
