For my birthday this year I decided I was finally going to get the bike I’ve always wanted. This bike first popped up on my radar about 3-4 years ago and I never thought I’d actually own one because they’re pretty expensive, starting at $1200. It’s a Cruzbike. I’ve seen videos on YouTube and they look like they’re super comfortable and fun to ride, but that price was just something I couldn’t swallow for recreational exercise.
[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yzxDKo9-f4Q&w=640]
Then earlier this year I realized they have a conversion kit on their website. It’s about a 1/3 the cost of a complete bike. So I began search Craigslist and eBay for a suitable donor bike. It wasn’t easy because the top tube should ideally be no higher than the rear tire. It should be 26″, have suspension components, and threadless headset. I was striking out pretty much every week, then I noticed in the corner of my garage that I had almost all the requirements met in my Giant Suede hybrid bike that my wife bought me for my birthday almost 5 years ago!
So I ordered the conversion kit and a few other needed pieces to make the swap. I wasn’t as easy as I thought it was going to be. Thankfully I had the necessary bike tools from Park to remove the crank arms and bottom bracket. I also had to visit a few of the local bike shops which was kinda neat to get a new seat post and shim. As time allowed, I was able to work on it and a week later I have a finished Cruzbike!