I have this really nice, fancy road bike that I bought a couple of years ago. I like it. A lot. However, it lends itself to zippy tours through the countryside.

I was looking for another bike that I could use for leisurely rides around town – to the farmer’s market, to the yarn store, to the fabric store, to the grocery store, and maybe to a parade.

I trolled Craigslist for a while and even considered buying a new bike. I knew that I would modify it on my own with a basket, a Brooks saddle, and a panniers rack on the back. I just wanted a bike with a solid frame that was close to my house and cheap.

Then I found my new baby:

I picked this up about 10 minutes from my house, for less than $25. It’s a little rusty. The tires are flat. I think the brakes are shot.

But I think she’s perfect.

The paint is chipped and rusty, so the first step is to strip the whole thing down and re-paint. I am considering Kelly green.

Ultimately, I want to make a single-speed bike. Maybe even fixed speed. But I want to keep the cost low (except for the Brooks saddle). My timeframe is to have this ready for next spring.

I can’t wait to take her out for a slow, leisurely spin.

Have you ever modified a bike? You know, hipster-style? I could pretty much use any advice you would give me. Thanks.