A different Rock Lobster Team Tig 853

Small update:

Plans to update this into a gravel bike are on hold for two reasons:

1. I want to keep it as an MTB. I'm sure some bar ends and aero extensions will suffice for any long-distance gravel events if necessary!
   
2. After attempting the festive 500 in one sitting with very little preparation, I've developed a knee problem and am now painfully aware of the need for a proper bike fit. Those aren't cheap and I can't afford to do both at the moment.
   
   

I did find the time to upgrade the braking a little, moving from mismatched avid/hope rotors (160mm) to Sram centreline rotors (180mm) front and rear. Satisfied my OCD a little bit as well. The plan didn't go as intended, and the front brake still doesn't work very well. I will bleed them when I have a chance.

So that's one piece of the puzzle done, once I sort the brakes that'll be stopping power sorted. I also nabbed a NOS Topeak bottle cage off eBay, supposed to be silver but look white in the pictures. King cages still reign supreme aesthetically.

Next up will be the drivetrain, moving to Sram 11x and neutrino cranks. The Shimano stuff works fine but is in need of an overhaul, and I haven't moved from the 11-28 cassette yet. Makes more sense to scour eBay/classifieds and replace the lot.

I moved back to riser bars and a shorter stem. The long position with the hope stem and flat bars was too uncomfortable with riser bars. I think I might try a longer stem and handlebars with a bit more backsweep.
I'm very aware it is looking UGLY with the cage, top tube pad, excess cables and mudguards - I haven't had time to get it looking pretty, and I don't want it getting nicked! That's the excuse anyway.
I'm looking forward to taking it to some trails soon.

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