Bike tinkering

I'm restructuring my Fuji into a kind of cyclo-cross format. I've had the frame altered (the brake stay here was cut out, shortened, and then re-welded into a higher position) to make for enough clearance for the tires (although it's still tight),

and I'm running one chain-ring (42T) up front (so it's only a six speed). I'm going to try to use it for commuting this winter.

It's not that I'm giving up on the fixie, or the single speed. It's that I'm looking for more utility in my bike stable. I need an all-weather, all-rounder. I'm hoping this will do it.

That, and it's fun to tinker.