This is my 1986; 1X8. Picked up the frame for $30 and built it with some parts I had laying around + a couple of necessary purchases. There's nothing original on it, but the frame rides absolutely like a dream. Better yet, I'm beating some of my old PR's on it, both up and downhill (faster than my On One Inbred 29'er).
There is something about this bike that feels very right. It just clicks. The fit, the ergos... everything fits like a glove for me. Coming from a BMX background, the ride reminds me of how my old General Osborn Pro felt - like it was built for me.
I need to upgrade the seat to what I normally ride with (WTB) and I'm going 1X9. 1X8 is okay, but I don't like the jump from 26T to 34T in my gearing. Anyhow, I ride this nearly every day at my local trails while all my modern bikes just hang. It's interesting how this bike just gets around people on much more modern bikes.
I've kinda been searching for a modern, steel, budget friendly 26" XC style rigid frame set with horizontal dropouts and cantilever bosses - you really can't find these days. Then it dawned on me that these vintage frames were EXACTLY what I was looking for!
View attachment 728707