Looking better

After a few more hours in the kitchen here is the result. Note the lack of rear brake, re shaped handlebars and old mtb brake lever. It looks and feels very different.

Couple of bits done

The rear brake has now been removed and a proper front brake (used) bought for £10. I now propose using a MTB style brake lever which will be drilled out from 22 mm to 24 mm to allow it so fit over the handlebar, oh and the handlebars have been re shaped. Now with less curve on them , they look better and feel better.

Teething Troubles

As you would expect, minor little problems materialise once you start riding, in no particular order here are a few items which need to be addressed.
1) Seat post not tight enough in frame - adjust frame to allow clamp to tighten
2) Wheels - tubs are 1" smaller diameter hence bike 1/2" nearer the ground and with 175mm crank arms cornering clearance on pedals is 2.5 inches ie Naff all!
3) Remove rear brake - will lighten bike and make it look like a proper fixie.
4) Handlebars - not comfortable due to being narrow and with a tigh bend, change required
5) Find a front brake brake and brake lever

The future is bright the future is orange

The front wheel is now in with regreased bearings also a front brake has been fitted to keep the back company and with the smaller diameter wheels the brake pads line up (just) Might do a little calculation to see what the effect of the wheel change will have on the gearing. Yes the orange tyre is a bit poncy but hopefull it will distract your eye when you watch me try and stop