^this, given ^^this.
26" fully-rigid early 90's mountain bike, with fresh tires (like Compass's Rat Trap Pass), adapted to drop bars. Use a 9-speed shimano drivetrain (like your Soar, although I'm not sure it would handle a triple chainring in the front) and travel agent brake adapters for v-brakes. Lots of bikes, frames, wheels, and drivetrain bits available on the used market.
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