Sam and his Bassi Le Montreal (V2)

After years riding a fixed gear bike I felt like slowing the pace a bit. My 30th birthday was waving at me from afar and I was feeling more and more like cruising down the Berri hill. My knees still thank me. So a city bike was looking like a great alternative and at the time, even before being part of C&L staff, there was a sale for that version of the Bassi Montreal. The stars were aligned.

Back then, my bike knowledge could be measured in “ratio-to-skid patch” and with how many Thickslicks I could go through in a year. I had not yet met the Nitto, Blue Lug, Rivendell, Sim Works and René Herse of this world. It wouldn’t be long. The stock build being slick and solid was totally gonna suit my needs. Anyways, I was so eager to ride like a grandpa. Which I still do and showing it off with that Stridsland decal.

I eventually swapped almost all the stock parts. Only the crank, the front derailleur, and the wheels remain from the original spec (for now). As you can see, I have rapidly been influenced by the companies mentioned above and their instagram accounts. To my defence I also explored different setups to maximize my comfort and my pleasure. Because, let’s be honest, without comfort and fun I might as well ride a Bixi.

So this version of my Montreal is the most optimal version to this day to fill this quest. My favourite add-ons are probably the Sai Flower Blue Lug’s triangle reflector and the Nitto lamp holder no.7. Good gift ideas in my opinion. They have no impact on my comfort but they sure do look good on any bike!

With winter still going strong, I'll sadly have to leave this bike hanging in my home office for a little while. Cute wall art I think. We might see it again when the snow and salt will make way for clean roads and crowded parks once again.