This was a fun build without many mishaps. Some may say replacing the Modolo Speedy calipers with Modolo Professionals is overkill, but I already had them in stock, so... Also that saddle, right?? Anyway, enjoy the pics. Leave questions in the comments. Thanks!
This bike came to me a week ago and it instantly became my #1 project. The frame, as you can see, is beautiful, with only a few minor paint chips. Turns out the Red #140 nail gel from our local Dollar Tree is a near-perfect match for the Allez candy apple paint. As this already had a great red and black theme going, I wanted to strengthen it even more.
That San Marco Regal saddle is pristine, so it's getting bagged and saved for another project. I bought a new red/black Selle Italia X3 on eBay that will go on this. Yeah, I know... new saddle on a 35 year old bike... so sue me... it'll look terrific. Plus, this isn't supposed to be a totally retro build.
The Cinelli bar tape got trashed and replaced with red/black tape, which looks great. Replaced those levers, which I always thought were perhaps the ugliest brake levers ever produced, with Modolo Professional black levers with black hoods. The Modolo Speedy brake calipers are being replaced with black Modolo Professional calipers. Leaving the crankset (Specialized), front and rear mechs (Shimano 600 SIS) as they are.
The black annodized downtube shimano shifters are SO cool. Pedals are off for now (Look Keo II) and will be replaced by something black... still not sure on those. Seatpost (Thompson Elite) is staying. Replaced the Salsa stem with an ITM black stem. Handlebars got replaced with black 44cm ones, as well.
Next up, brake cabling and replacing the chain. Then... posting new photos here. Stay tuned!
I swear... this post is NOT a subliminal attempt at encouraging you to buy an ANKER phone charger! (Buy an ANKOR phone charger!)
I love rear derailleurs. There... I said it. I'm out and I'm proud, baby!
The industrial design of these things are at once sublime and complex...overstated... let me try again. These things f*cking rock!
This particular specimen is from, I believe, the first generation of Suntour Cyclone. It's in 7/10 shape. The bright light I used to photograph it really is NOT flattering. Those scratches aren't visible except under harsh light. This came off a 1978 Nishiki.... something.
The frame had been repainted by Cycle Art some time ago (decal on chainstay) and it looks to have Nervex lugs or the Japanese equivalent - again, chime in with comments. Spring action is okay, but not great. The teeth are worn on the pulleys... but man, it was worth the price of admission.
The whole bike, including a 9/10 Campagnolo Super Record crankset and 7/10 Campagnolo super record brakeset set me back $145. Craigslist, baby... gotta know what to look for and don't let things slip by just because there's the label "Nishiki" on the frame. Some of those were darn fine bikes!
This really doesn't qualify as "vintage," but it's my site, so... what the hell. It's a lovely specimen, early 2000s Kestrel 200SCI with full Dura-Ace group. Some of these were outfitted with lesser components, so I jumped at this one when it showed up on CraigsList. Previous owner rode it three times, so it's in pristine condition. Comes in at 18 pounds six ounces with pedals.
