DIY Cargo Bike Build - Can This Old MTB Replace My Car? | Ep. 1

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Most of us rely on cars way too much. I want to change that in my own life.

In this episode, I’m taking a $40 vintage mountain bike that's all but been forgotten — a 1984 Univega — and beginning the process of turning it into my everyday cargo bike. This build has one mission; to get me riding more and driving less.

Episode 1 covers:

Full teardown of the original 41-year-old bike

Cleaning + clear coating the frame to preserve its history

A legendary wheel-build session with Russ

Prepping for the heart of the build: the Crust Clydesdale fork

This is the most ambitious project I’ve taken on yet — a three-part series to see if an old mountain bike can really replace a car.

Series breakdown:
🔧 Part 1 – Teardown, clear coat, wheel build (this video)
🔧 Part 2 – Crust Clydesdale fork install + cockpit setup
🔧 Part 3 – Final assembly, tuning, and the first cargo joyride

Big thanks to Crust Bikes & Velo Orange for supporting this build & to Russ for working with me to build a set of gorgeous wheels!

Subscribe so you don’t miss Part 2! See ya there.

Stay RAD,

-Mike
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Learn more about Russ & Switzerland Trail Bike Supply Here:
https://www.switzerlandtrail.com/