jwxr7's bent build thread

[jwxr7]

I've been slowed down with the small details. I figured out that I need to get some pet screen material for the seat and I bought fish line and needles so I can attempt to sew it together. I just bought some used aluminum crutches for $1 to part them out for the adjustable rear seat support struts. While I was at the store I had to buy the 2 Raleigh pursuit 12 speeds that were there. I'm not sure why I bought them, but they were in great shape and only $10 each. One is my size and one is my wife's size (in case the recumbent doesn't work out ). I could always use them for the next newer more improved recumbent that is probably going to be made.

[MetroMPG]

Doesn't it always seem more exiting to watch the pace of the macro stuff vs. the micro stuff?

That seat frame looks fancy. And I love the idea of reusing the crutches as adjustable struts - clever.

[jwxr7]

Yeah, I figured the aluminum tubes would be lighter, stronger, and more elegant than threaded rod.

I may end up hiring my mom for the sewing part too so it doesn't turn out all wierd looking .

I'm having trouble with the handle bar end of the tiller for the steering. Supposedly the 3/4" emt should fit over most 1" steering head set things (that part that originally fits into the top of the fork and expands). The emt is .040" or so too small so I will have to do some work to fit that.

[jwxr7]

It's rideable . I put some cardboard on the seat and road it in the parking lot. I found out the chain needed a few more links removed and the steering needs adjusted some. It is a nice riding position, very relaxing. The low speed balance is tricky at first.

Now I can put brake levers, shifters, and cables on. After that all it really needs is to have the material sewn on the seat and the front brake bridge put on.

[MetroMPG]

And a bigger car to carry it home.

Just joshin. CONGRATS on the test ride. Looks awesome! I'm impressed (particularly by the crutches).

[johnpr]

looks like you did a great job!!

[jwxr7]

Thanks,
I was thinking about trying to haul it home in my metro . I will be in town cutting a load of firewood this weekend, so I might throw it on top.

I put the cables on late yesterday and took it for a 1/2 mile test ride. I found out how out of shape I am and how nice a ride it has. Can't wait to try it with the real seat configuration.

I bought the seat fabric today and will attempt sewing soon.

I weighed the bike after the last ride and it is 36.8 lbs. I had to use heavier components in certain areas due to compatibility issues with the lighter ones. I figure it still has a pound or two of stuff left to go on, but I plan on using an aluminum rear wheel off the small raleigh I bought monday. That could shave a couple pounds off, so I'm not gonna be too far off my goal weight.

[johnpr]

sounds like you are coming along really well, keep up the good work

[MetroMPG]

36.8 lbs isn't horrible - it's 1 lb lighter than my stock 20 year old beater mountain bike!

[trebuchet03]

^^ I agree with metro....

My SWB 'bent is in the same region when fully loaded (mid/rear rack, lights, bottle cages, computer, etc. etc.) - and that's with aluminum wheels and shimano deore components! (not the lightest, but far from heaviest). I do have a silent clutch hub which allegedly is a little heavy though....

The important thing with weight is.... Don't try to save a few ounces on components if the bare frame is the bulk of the weight. as long as you're focused on a)easiest/cheapest to lighten and b)what's heaviest to begin with - you're doing well "b" typically is the engine