Converting an MTB to a tourer with drops?

Bobby · 01-14-2008, 03:53 PM

Hello there, I am thinking of converting my '98 Specialized Stumpjumper to a road friendly bicycle by adding drops and reducing the tyre thickness. I am not so bothered about changing the wheels, just the convenience and comfort of adding drop handle bars to a bike that doesn't eat much dirt anymore.
Can anyone advise me how to go about this, is it possible or will the changes in stem length and the cost of STI levers etc. make it all a bit of a pointless venture...hope to hear from someone soon, thanks for reading this.

silverbullet · 01-14-2008, 03:53 PM

If you're just looking for comfort and a bit better aero dynamics, you could put clip-on aerobars on your existing bars. Just that will give you 1-2 mph for the same effort.

I've done this on my general purpose mountain bike for commuting and rail-to-trails type riding. I take them off for single-track and/or MTB racing.