MAP Sportif

The first proper photos of my new MAP randonneur project bike showed up on Mitch's flickr page last night. I'm calling this bike a sportif, as that was the subcategory of randonneur style bicycle we were going for. Originally when I was helping out in the Ahearne/MAP space Mitch proposed to build me a 700c rando bike as long as it could be tested by Bicycle Quarterly. Being a sort of opportunist, well I couldn't decline the offer. He had some ideas he wanted to try out, and as far as those the rest of the design was left up to me. Of course Mitch had the last say and executed everything to the best of his ability, which in my regard is hard to match. Instead of making a more versatile randonneur bike that would be suitable for light tours, I decided I wanted a lightweight, fendered bike capable of carrying a handlebar bag and lighting my way. Pretty much an event bike. I figure the touring bike I built can and will continue to work well for tours heavy or light, or rides where 650b is needed. When I started thinking about this new bike, this old one came to mind:



The inspiration comes through rather clearly in the MAP:













Of course this is the initial MAP build, not much will change when I get it though. Seat, seatpost, and pedals will go first of course, seeing at they are Mitch's prop parts. The preliminary black bar tape will probably be swapped at some point for something a little more fitting. I didn't want to pick out an expensive leather tape without living with the bike for a little while first. The gearing is also subject to change, if it doesn't quite feel right for the ride. As it turns out the test for Bicycle Quarterly fell through. Meaning I will have my bike sooner, so I can't complain. There will be a follow up article or two once the bike has arrived.