My New Ride: Swiss Army Issue Bicycle

I got my new bike from Switzerland. I'm a newbie to cycling so I wanted something no-nonsense; suitable for commuting and designed for hills and light, off-road duty. This bike is filling the bill. Love the sturdy, hand-braised Condor frame (Bradley Wiggins' frame choice) with Shimano shifting. The Swiss leather seat is extra comfy. 

This model was introduced in the mid-nineties to modernize the venerable Swiss courier bike that was largely unchanged since the 1930s. The bike was built to carry not just letters. Military specs required that it potentially carry items like machine guns if necessary! As a result, it is extra sturdy and over-built, which I like. The front and rear racks are custom-made as part of the frame. Pretty unique. Cool French, Italian, and Swiss components and maintenance items are woven throughout the ride

I went to Palouse Bicycle Collective to get it inspected and adjusted to fit me perfectly. These guys are awesome. Their only downside is that they are hurting the business of  the other for-profit bike shops in town.  Their high level of service while committing to dirt cheap service prices makes me want to reconsider my aversion to all things 'collective.' Peace Man.