Let's try this again…
After spending some looking around r/xbikeing it seems appropriate to share the scoop on my 1988 Cannondale SM500 that I built as an all arounder.
TL;DR
I purchased it as a bare frame/fork from an internet bike friend after it ended up being too small for him. He found it handing on the wall in a central Ohio bike shop and could not resist. (Other than chips/scratches, it is in amazing condition and cleaned up easily for him – a nice patina if you will) I took my time, did a bunch of reading/learning, and started the build using a combination of used vintage, new/used modern, and new specialty parts with the intention of creating the ultimate all around bike. I've spent time riding around town, on local rail trails, and on some local singletrack with it. I accomplished my goal – an ATB that combines the best of old and new. Aluminum frame is responsive to inputs and the larger tires make for a comfortable ride. I'm happy with everything except the current saddle which will be swapped once I find a suitable replacement.
Here are specs for the facts junkies of the world.
- 1988 Cannondale SM500 "blueberry" frame (130m rear dropout spaceing)
- Vintage wheelset with Shimano Paralax hubs (converted to 130mm spacing)
- Continental 26"x1.95" DoubleFighters (New)
- New Albion 3x 165mm crank and Shimano EF202 pedels (both repurposed from my other bikes)
- Velo Orange BB (new)
- Shimano Alivio 9 spd RD and 3×9 shifters (new/used)
- Shimano Altus FD (used)
- Shimano 9 spd cassette and chain (new)
- Shimano Alivio v-brakes and levers (4000 series – all new)
- Shimano cables/housings (new)
- Origin8 Quill stem adapter and cable guide (new)
- Velo Orange Stem/Hot Bars/seatpost (new)
- Velo Orange sealed bearing headset (used – purchased locally)
- Cannondale grips (new closeouts)
- SDG Bel Air 2.0 Ti rails (gently used ebay)
- Vintage Blackburn Mtnrack from another bike purchased and resold
You might notice the silver bars in the pic by the trail sign – I borrowed the black bars for another bike and replaced them with silver. I'd grab another black set but they are sold out…
by BorisT72