tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5039389393310364849.post9030935302819098352..comments2023-10-10T11:52:54.240-04:00Comments on CITY GIRL RIDES: bicycle makeoverchristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12454898138117340431noreply@blogger.comBlogger3125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5039389393310364849.post-23214901386965123112010-12-26T11:37:17.884-05:002010-12-26T11:37:17.884-05:00Just Google'd "diy bicycle makeover"...Just Google'd "diy bicycle makeover" and this post was first up. I work at a bicycle shop, and we've been 'upgrading' a ton of older drop bar bicycles with Northroad handlebars.<br /><br />Northroads, also called "touring" bars sometimes, are similar to what used to be on old English 3 speeds. They are narrower than "cruiser" handlebars, but have the comfortable swept back position. I use the ones by Wald called 'touring' handlebars.<br /><br />My preferred bars are only about $12 retail - but you also need to change the brake levers, add grips, and run new cables. At our shop we have a "Northroad Swap" special. $80 including all parts and labor. (doesn't include shifters, as those are usually on the stem or downtube on these bicycles). Wald baskets are $20. <br /><br />The Northroad/basket combo makes a bicycle like yours awesome. The brakes will work better with the new levers, too.<br /><br />All the best!<br />Chris HarneUnknownhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03803141703319178640noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5039389393310364849.post-64329859594693285632010-07-21T20:23:00.252-04:002010-07-21T20:23:00.252-04:00chris, the boyfriend reminded me of that too! i th...chris, the boyfriend reminded me of that too! i think with cruiser handle bars it will make it easier (at least that's my experience now with charlotte who weights 30lbs + whatever i put in basket). i don't know if you've have this experience but with drop bars i don't feel as in control of my front wheel and maybe thats a result of sitting forward. i'm hoping it will change my experience to a more controllable and comfortable ride. i can't wait to share it and see what a difference it makes on my ride. <br /><br />p.s. thank you for the wald review! very helpful.christinahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/12454898138117340431noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5039389393310364849.post-26299277038781466732010-07-21T19:58:34.594-04:002010-07-21T19:58:34.594-04:00um yes! i get wrist pains so it is important that ...um yes! i get wrist pains so it is important that i don't put a ton of pressure on my hands when more up right handle bars are better for me rather then the drop handle bars... <br />we have had a few wald products and they are really solid great products! but remember that since it is a metal basket in the front plus whatever you add in your basket will make the front heavier... my wicker basket is perfect because it isn't heavy...we had an extra large basket on maryjane and it was a wobbly ride and the front will would always swing and she could never stand up straight..so we removed it although it was pretty awesome!<br /><br />can't wait to see!cbhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14621143547156651330noreply@blogger.com