This is my 1996 Gary Fisher Mt. Tam. You may be struck at first by the fact that it is a mountain bike - you are 100% correct - but make no mistake, this is a “transportational” bike… My wife and I work at the same place, but have different ideas on what a reasonable time to leave work is.  This led to the ridiculous situation of taking two cars for the 32 mile round trip - even when we left at the same time in the morning!

Through a long chain of events I came to realize that this arrangement was not a problem - it was a beautiful opportunity.  Now, 4+ times a week I pop off my front tire, throw my trusty mount in the trunk and carpool into work. At the end of the day I leave as early as I see fit and ride the 16 miles home (with new routes growing that to 20+).  I get my exercise, fresh air, and still tend to beat my wife home. All without having to worry about riding in the morning (of course they _do_ have showers at work… Hmmmmm).

Though it is a mountain bike - it prefers the term “road warrior”.  My route home is all on the road, but the asphalt can get rough (it reminds me that we do have winters, and I will be facing them eventually).  As my friend (a fellow Judy shox owner) says: I have the suspension to say “I don’t, but I _could_”.  The terrain can be rolling to very flat depending on the route, but it always ends in the 1 mile of 8% grade to my house. This year I’m getting a recumbent (so I can see the sights), but I’ve been surprised how used to this upright I’ve become.

Specs:

• Bontrager Race 5deg handlebar / seat post / pedals
• Shimano LX front / XT rear
• Rock Shox Judy XC
• v-brakes front / rear
• Super-comfy Oury grips (gloves? I don’t need gloves)
• “be seen” lights / Cyclecomp / mirror / seat pack
• Specialized Crossroads Armadillo 1.95″ tires (my only “road” conversion - which gives me higher pressure and a continuous center-tread)

Thanks for the great blog! —Jason