This bicycle has been updated - click here for the earlier version

Updated Jan 2009:

Vintage 1983 model Specialized Expedition Touring Bike -

60cm After hearing numerous testimonials from owners of these vintage tourers I bought this one about 2 years ago and it was in fairly rough shape sporting mt bike bars. The original gray paint was chipped & scratched very badly but otherwise it was sound.

After riding it like it was for about a year and a half I decided to give it a makeover with modern components.

I asked my local frame builder to check it over and do the following modifications.
-Spread rear drops to 135mm
-Checked frame for alignment
-Brazed on 2 down tube shifter cable stops (with small hearts in center which matches small hearts on inside of fork crown)
-Remove top tube cable guides from top of top tube
-Brazed on 2 new top tube brake cable guides on side of top tube
-Brazed on Chain holder
-Brazed on Pump Peg on head tube

Then I decided to go with nickel plating rather than paint. So far I have not purchase decals although I am debating with myself to add some in a burnt orange to match the Chris King headset.

I already had most of my parts for a Shimano XT 9 speed drive train from a previous touring bike I decided was too small and consequently sold the frame keeping the parts for this vintage Expedition.

In July of 2008 I was able to take this 25 year old bike out on a trip for which it was designed and built to excel. For three weeks I cycled from Sacramento, across the Sierras, across Nevada on Hwy 50 and about 80 miles into Utah loaded up with about 65 pounds of gear.

I cannot imagine a brand spanking new touring bike doing any better. It has such a pleasant and stable ride.

I think the 107 cm wheelbase & 45 cm chainstays along with the fatter tires help immensely in that regard.

Before my trip, the stainless Giles Berthoud fenders were added and I also changed out the cockpit area and cables switching over to Jagwire cables that matched up with my color scheme.

The tires are also a recent change for that tour. They are the excellent 700c x 35 Schwalbe Marathon Supremes. (No flats for about 900 miles on them so far)

Also added was an Origin8 stem and Soma Stem Adapter / Column. Those are 46cm wide Nitto Noodle Bars.

These new pictures are from a recent 40 mile ride to a wonderful Dallas, TX landmark, White Rock Lake.

Regards,

Paul
Dallas, TX area.

neves77@sbcglobal.net