Thread: MTB Drop conversion search continues
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Old 03-19-20, 07:39 PM
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mechanicmatt
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Bikes: '23 Black Mtn MC, '87 Bruce Gordon Chinook, '08 Jamis Aurora, '86 Trek 560, '97 Mongoose Rockadile, & '91 Trek 750

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Originally Posted by jpjpjp
As a "quarantine" project I've decided to try to find a cheap older and rigid MTB to convert to drop bars, to be used mainly for gravel and light singletrack, but also for grocery runs/light touring. In short, a flexible beater. And while I'm not new to riding bikes, I'm relatively new to building them out/modifying them, so I'm looking for your suggestions/recommendations/wisdom.

Here is what I've found in my area (Baltimore, MD):

-Specialized Hard Rock COMP https://baltimore.craigslist.org/bik...091019719.html
-Bridgestone MB5 Trail Blazer https://www.facebook.com/marketplace...6051264305456/
-Specialized Cross Road https://www.facebook.com/marketplace...8138341158889/

Ideally, I talk the seller down to as close to 100 as I can get them.

Thanks for the input in advance!
I like the crossroads. You should look for a 58CM road frame, and 19-21" MTB and Hybrid frame, in theory that would be your size. Early 90's hybrids have basically touring geometry. I've known several people who have taken Crossroads and converted to drops. Trek Multitracks, especially the lugged variety like others are saying, have close to 520 geometry and frame clearance for 700c x 42c (maybe larger, I just happen to have one).

Geometry is everything though, doesn't matter if the bike is cheap or expensive, got to have a frame to fit. That Hardrock looks to be in the best shape of what you have shown.
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