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@zootsuit
My other half's birthday is coming up in April and I want to get her a bike that she will actually ride and get some use out of. I think dutch style/ hybrid bike is the way to go but have been disappointed looking at Bobbin, Pendleton etc. They're all bottom end spec and so heavy! (15KG+) A real shame, there's a gap in the market here. I think a custom build is the way to go, for under £300 think I can do something much better around the 10kg mark.
Plan is to powder coat a frame in RAL6027 (celeste) and add brown leather saddle and grips, probably the obligatory wicker basket as well. Inspiration (have searched high and low for a decent 531 mixte in 17" but no luck):
Starting point is this Ridgeback hybrid frame I picked up cheap. Alloy step through frame (1.5kg) + steel fork (1kg). Not ideal but much lighter than a gas pipe frame.
Component wise have the following options:
Transfer parts from her old, too large Raleigh Pioneer with 3 speed Sturmey Archer hub. Will still need to buy V brakes, levers, new stem and headset as the Ridgeback is 1 1/8 threaded. Also needs new tyres, saddle, grips etc. Estimate around £230 cost. Haven't been able to set hub gears set up properly, I think due to dodgy shifter , but could be a dead end if hub is knackered . Also not sure 3 speeds is suitable for hilly Bristol.
Complete new build with 1 x 8 Alivio/Deore group, new wheels. Estimate this will come in nearer £380 (including sale of old bike) so over budget.
Find a donor bike for parts, difficult to find something in good condition / of good quality. I have seen a Pinnacle Neon 1 for sale locally so this could be used for parts or failing that just respray the Neon instead and add some North Road bars. It doesn't quite have the classic look or step through frame so I'm not sure if this will look a bit weird? It does come in under 10KG though! Estimate total cost £280 (including sale of old bike).