This bike has been with me through everything and she doesn't have a name. In 1998 the frame was a warranty replacement....I transferred the parts and got to racing her at the Wednesday night series at Holiday Valley, Raccoon Rally, Six Hours of Power and others. I had so much fun, I upgraded to a GT LTS in 1999; but kept breaking parts. Thus I ended up racing and riding this bike most of the next three years. Then I converted her into this outstanding urban assault cycle. She has carried everything from 6: 6' ft sections of copper pipe to 24 packs of beers. There is an adapter for running the dog. This bike commuted everyday in Buffalo winters for 5 years....and every day in the traffic of Washington DC for 5 years. She has towed multiple trailers hauling groceries, kids and camping gear. Her parts have changed over the years, but we never lost that connection. I have depended on this bike for almost 18 years. After multiple shoulder dislocations, this was the bike I rode for re-hab. This year, I had that shoulder repaired surgically....and one more time, I call upon this trusty steed. Thank you bike for all your years of service.
Parts Spec
Raleigh 18" M400 Aluminum frame: 1997
Kinesis Fork: 2000
Ringle Headset: 1995
Azonic Shorty 50mm stem
Shimano Deore XT V-Brakes: 1995
Truvativ Stylo Crank: 2010
Deore XT Cassette, Hubs, Shifters, Deurraleur: 2008
Race Face Carbon Bars and Seatpost: 2008
DT Swiss Double Butted Spokes with Alum Nipples
Rhino Lyte Rims
Cheap Plastic Fenders and Alum Rack
Bontrager Seat
Ergon GP1 Grips
Xpedo MX Force Platform pedals
Jag Wire Sealed Cables
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