Bicycle Mechanics - Campy/Shimano compatibility

Hi guys,

I have an old Rocky Mtn. Bill Bailey frame that originally came with full campy. I have been trying to upgrade the shifters to STI and generally, make the bike more rideable. I have bought a pair of 105 STI shifter, new wheels w/8 sp shimano freehub body, and a rear 105 derailleur. I will be buying a shimano cassette next.

I am specifically wondering if the original campy crankset and front derailleur will work with a Shimano chain/cassette setup. The campy rings and cranks are mint. A guy at a local shop said that the campy rings will not work well with STI shifters because the rings don't have those step hyperglide things to help the chain up onto the bigger ring.

Anyone have any experience with this?

I also am wondering about replacing the single pivot brakes that are on there. They are old Campy as well and in beautiful shape but when I had them with the orig brake levers, they were stiff as hell. Will STI shifters relieve some of the stiffness of should I look at getting some long reach dual pivots?

Thanks,
BKP

I'm not positive, but as long as the chainrings are both 8 speed, i can't see why not.

Your chainrings should be OK, although you may find the indexed STI front shift control very frustrating, if you are used to fine-tuning your front derailleur position. Those ramps and pins are needed only if you shift under power; if you spin the cranks gently whilst shifting, pins and ramps offer no tangible benefit.

I, too, have first-generation single-pivot Campag. sidepulls, and they look and feel alot better than they stop! Try KoolStop pads. I use Shimano aero brake handles, from which I have removed the return springs --this did enhance my braking effectiveness and reduce the perceived stiffness slightly.

STI levers add another spring you have to work against. If you ae going to use them replace the calipers. The front rings should be OK.

I've got 105 STIs and much older "
no speed" 105 cranks... no major problems, except when I'm honking and shifting like a moron... As long as there is some "fuzziness" in the front shifters you shouldn't have much trouble in making them work. I know people who have used NR and SR stuff with STI.