This is the bike I recently took over to Switzerland for a week of exploring the Alps. I went as lightweight as possible (whilst still being comfortable) with only rear panniers, a small one man tent from Snugpak and a Carradice handlebar bag. Meaning I could be totally self sufficient for the week yet light enough to make it up the long mountain climbs – one day I even stripped the bike of its panniers and racks, left them in camp, and headed into the mountains on a weight free bike… it was incredible!
The bike itself is a mish-mash of old and new components. I like to use kit until it’s literally on its last legs, only replacing things when they have to be. Over the last 3 years the 105 groupset has ridden through the Scottish Highlands, the Brecon Beacons, Snowdonia National Park, the length of Italy, Triglavski National Park in Slovenia and it’s still going strong. The only change I’ve made is swapping out the 105 rear mech for a mountain bike mech so I could give myself some easier gears for the climbs – you can read more about that in this blog post HERE.
Anyway, it’s far from perfect but that’s why I love it, every little scratch and other imperfection tells a story of all the amazing experiences this bike has given me. Speaking of stories I’ll post some pictures from my recent tour of Switzerland on the blog over the next few days…
