Road Cycling - Diamondback Master TG? Anybody heard of it?

I have an offer to buy this road bike that is hard to pass up. The only thing is, I can't find much information on this model. I know its a few years old and has 105 comps, but that's about it. Anybody ridden one or know about them? Thanks.

Diamondback road bikes used to be called "Centurians". I bought a lower level model back in the late '80s when I was starting out. It was a good entry-level steel frame. The higher end frames were called something like “ironman” and endorsed by either Dave Scott or Scott Tinney (sp?), both were tri-athletes. The “ironman” frame was a much better frame than I owned so my guess is would have a nice feel to it. The frame you mention is probably very similar to the “ironman”. Your only problem might be finding parts that still fit (for example it probably has a threaded headset and was designed with 14 to sixteen speeds in mind).

Originally posted by JPB
(for example it probably has a threaded headset and was designed with 14 to sixteen speeds in mind).

depends on the age, and his use, he may only need a 7 or 8 cluster in the rear, or could even fit a 9 if he were to spread the frame... as for threaded headsets I still use one on my bike today :D

p.s. welcome to the forums :beer:

DB master TG is a pretty good steel road frame. Are there any identifying labels on the tubes, like Tange double butted?

I try to keep up with vintage Asian steel frames on ebay and DB's like yours have been going for $160 -$275.

If its in good shape and the price is right, and of course it fits, you should enjoy it.

Thanks for the info guys, keep it coming! I'm glad to know its a steelie.

What is a threaded headset exactly and what are the implications?

Until recently all headsets were threaded. Means the headset nuts threads onto the fork.

There are no implications really. I recently put together a Colnago Master with such a headset and they're still available from most if not all makers (mine is a Campy Chorus) with prices from $20 to well over $100. Unless yours is abused all it will need is new grease and it should last forever.

I remember looking at a DB Master and was impressed. Good solid bike. Enjoy it.

Originally posted by skanxalot
Thanks for the info guys, keep it coming! I'm glad to know its a steelie.

What is a threaded headset exactly and what are the implications?

The fork is threaded and the upper portion of the headset threads on to the fork with the headtube of the frame between the upper race and lower race. The races hold the bearings.

http://www.performancebike.com/shop/Profile.cfm?SKU=1598

Newer bikes tend to have threadless headsets. It's just a different way to do it.

http://www.performancebike.com/shop/Profile.cfm?SKU=14528

Having a threaded headset is not a problem. A good quality headset can last a lifetime if cared for properly. The (well maintaned) Specialized headset on my 1986 Specialized Allez has many thousands of miles on it and still functions perfectly. Threaded headsets continue to be available and are easy to locate.

I was riding in the Rome, Ga. century Saturday, spinning up a hill when I passed a small group of riders and as I looked to the right, guess what I saw? A Diamondback Master TG. I took the oportunity to ask the owner about it. Heres the scoop.

His is Salmon (pink) with black flecks in the paint. It's a Taiwanese tig welded frame with a Tange double butted sticker on the seat tube. A 1994 model with 7 speed Shimano 105 that looked to be in good shape. The owner said he got it new and "It's not the lightest frame but it's very comfortable." Overall I think it was a quality bike.

Just wanted to say thanks to everyone. With your help I decided on the Diamondback and am loving riding it. (Now all I need are some darn shoes!!) It is a 7-speed, 105. Here's a pic.

nice bike :) enjoy riding

Originally posted by Bikedud
<snip>
His is Salmon (pink) with black flecks in the paint.
<snip>


Unless they dramatically changed the paint from 1992 to 1994, "Salmon" is very generous. I just replaced the attached 1992 Master TG w/ a 2001 Trek 2300. It was a great bike w/ no problems for a decade. Hated to get rid of it, but it was time to upgrade. Retailed for $525 in 1992.

congratulations on the new ride.

as for the fork being threaded or threadless, you know, you can change it to whatever you want. Headsets are replaceable, you just need a cup press.

Maybe i'll race ya'll on my Purple and white 6 speed downtube Centurion !! it rocks ! well maybe not... at least I got rid of the Bio Pace....

I think my eye doctor rides an old Diamondback...

Jeff