Frame suggestions for shop bike

[baileyswalk]

Been tempted for some time to do a retro build but always found other projects. One thing I don't have in the stable is a shop/pub/cafe bike that's also capable/fun on gravel roads and the odd bit of easy singletrack (for when I spot something and can't resist). Ideally I'd like something aesthetically pleasing, a nice steel frame and curved forks just about covers that for me. I'd also like to get something that I can fit full length mudguards to (it rains a lot here) and a front pizza rack/wald basket (shop trips will be the main day to day duty) without too much faf. I've built many bikes but not anything with a 1" steerer or 130mm rear dropout. Have some parts but probably not many, so better getting a full bike and fettling over time, I'm not in any real rush but will inevitably get caught up in the build once I begin. Been looking at the early specialized's but I'm not sure if they will take rack & guards easily or if I'll get into a world of coldest pain etc. etc. any advice welcome.

 

[baileyswalk]

Forgot to mention... I'm 5ft 11 - so thinking a 19"/20" frame would suit?

 

[highlandsflyer]

The older steel Marins make great daily bikes, and pop up very regularly for reasonable money.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/166865441617

 

[bikeworkshop]

(just) Pre-suspension quality steel mtbs from around 1993-4 are probably the peak of cheap go-anywhere bikes.
Marin palisades, kona cindy or lava, spesh rocky, trek 930

Most had rack/ guard eyes, and room for 2.2 tyres and guards.
Touring geometry, quality tubing, all components still available, compatible with most modern stuff.

You can then fit your choice of tyre, saddle, bar and stem, Guards and front rack, make it how you like.

 

[baileyswalk]

The older steel Marins make great daily bikes, and pop up very regularly for reasonable money.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/166865441617

For some reason, the Marin's don't do it for me. Think it's just the neon. I remember a kid at school having one and we all thought he was the dugz...

 

[baileyswalk]

(just) Pre-suspension quality steel mtbs from around 1993-4 are probably the peak of cheap go-anywhere bikes.
Marin palisades, kona cindy or lava, spesh rocky, trek 930
View attachment 867972
Most had rack/ guard eyes, and room for 2.2 tyres and guards.
Touring geometry, quality tubing, all components still available, compatible with most modern stuff.

You can then fit your choice of tyre, saddle, bar and stem, Guards and front rack, make it how you like.

I like the trek & the rocky best - will keep an eye out for them. Hadn't considered the trek, I like that a lot.

 

[bikeworkshop]

Some of those treks have beautiful fade metallic paint - and great true temper tubes We sort of think of them as being a bit boring but actually they're perfect

 

[hamster]

Yes, the Treks are a bit of a steal, they always seemed to be a bit more nicely finished than other brands. Nowadays they don't seem to have the same enthusiast appeal so are great value.

 

[Imlach]

I like early 2000s Trek and Giants.

 

[bikeworkshop]

Wasn't it all aluminium by then?