Thoughts on Jamis Earth Cruiser 5 speed? Keep OG?

[buses 'n bikes]

Hey all, recently picked up a decently clean and complete EC 5 speed. It’s heavy as heck and I want to strandie it.

Is that a sacrilege? I’m keeping all the original parts and paint and decals will be OG but thinking of removing chainguard tabs and cable stops.

Thoughts? This seems like a rare bike but not exactly sought after. Nor does it seem all that high quality. Will I be kicking myself someday for modifying? Thanks for any input!

 

[Robertk]

Pics would help with a recommendation. Does it have the drum brake? The first generation had them and they are more rare.

 

[buses 'n bikes]

Ah! Good call on the pics and thanks for the reply. Here are some after I pulled some of the parts.

Yes, drum or roller rear brake. Jamis branded, not the predecessor - whatever brand that was.

 

[Robertk]

Missing chain guard so I think you're good to customize. I would try to incorporate the drum brake if possible, and make it a single speed. BUT! That's the fun of doing your own thing and having fun with it. This site is fully supportive of each individual's approach!

 

[jamesdart]

Earth cruiser are one of my fav bikes

 

[deorman]

 

[buses 'n bikes]

Thanks guys! I do have the chainguard, evertything. The original wheels are crazy heavy. I did think about trying to get a free/free hub to run a freewheel and the drum brake but I think a coaster would be lighter.

Want to make a lightweight, fast cruiser for around town and some off road trails. Looks like I’ll strip it down and sell off the original parts.

 

[Robertk]

Sounds like a plan

 

[wheelbender6]

I rented an EC to ride all over Grand Abaco Island. Great bike. I went riding to avoid shopping with my wife.

 

[Davo1970]

I think it looks killer. I love Jamis Earth Cruisers. Very solid and they make great Klunkers! Here's my budget build Earth Cruiser. Hope you dig it!! Yes thats real rust

 

[RustyGold]

That looks...meaty! Are those 27-fives?

Great job ,
Jason

 

[Davo1970]

Thanks! Kenda NEVEGAL 2.50

 

[buses 'n bikes]

Got it all finished last week. Rides great! The brake is a bit weak, though.

 

[G-Matt]

I think it looks killer. I love Jamis Earth Cruisers. Very solid and they make great Klunkers! Here's my budget build Earth Cruiser. Hope you dig it!! Yes thats real rust

Seen This bike in two six Bmx F/B
Love it good looking tough & simple [emoji1303][emoji1303]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Davo1970]

Got it all finished last week. Rides great! The brake is a bit weak, though.

Wow looks really nice! I want to ride it now

 

[sandman]

Just installed a nexus 4 speed on mine and it's a beast , but fun to ride .