My Own New Old Peugeot

I just scored my own dream Peugeot.


Based on the tubing, decals, and components, my guess is that this is a 1974 UX-10. I'll just get straight to the porn...

That headbadge!






This is the imprint on the saddle.


And of course, the tubing...

The Old SU200

The Everything Bike is one of those mythical creatures. Many talk about it, some work towards it, and few achieve it. The Everything Bike is often heard mentioned by cycling n00bs. Usually, people want ridiculous combinations of factors: criterium maneuverability, touring bike durable, hill climber lightness, and commuter stealth. My goals are a little more in reach.

• ability for wide gearing
  
• wall climber for pulling loads uphill
  
• ability to attach a trailer, clearance for fenders, transverse saddlebag, and snow tires
  
• disc brakes for all-weather stopping
  
• light enough to get there in a reasonable amount of time
  
• maneuverable enough for dense urban traffic
  
• stable enough riding with no hands for at least a few blocks
  
• ability to mount whatever I need to mount without jumping through hoops of fire
  

My SU200 has long been my Everything Bike.

Heavy Hauler:


Winter Whip/All-weather Commuter:


Touring Bike:


Generally Usable Bike (notice the light mounts on the fork):


Short of spending a few thousand dollars on a custom frame, nothing else has (or could) come close. Granted, I have spent quite a bit over the years trying out this, that, and the other thing. If you look closely at those photos, you'll notice a lot of various small changes. I now have a solid idea of what works for me and what stands up to long, hard use.

I'll discuss some of these items tomorrow.

My "New" Everything Bike

I'm getting a new bicycle. Here it is:


Interestingly, I've had this bicycle for quite a few years now and through lots of mileage. My 2006 Trek SU200 is getting a whole new refit. It's getting what it deserves.

Wait, why some crappy, chunky aluminum frame? Because it fits me and I don't just mean physically. I've gone through quite a few different whips over the years and nothing compares when it comes to all-around platforms.

The SU200, in my opinion, is the most underrated production frame. Period. Inexpensive enough to abuse with impunity. Versatile enough to love completely. Durable enough to ride hard and put away wet. Nothing else comes close.

There's almost nothing stock on it currently, but now the SU is going to get the treatment it reserves. Tune in tomorrow for more of the continuing adventures of This Old SU200.