C'Dale Black Lightning
07-03-07, 10:32 AM
#1
ukenut
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C'Dale Black Lightning
I just bought a Cannondale Black Lightning (1989, I think) and it seemed like a deal at the time - $100 and it's in great condition, but I'm starting to wonder what I've gotten myself into. The wheels are Mavic GP-4 (tubular rims) with Suntour Cyclone sealed bearing hubs and the tires are not installed. I've talked to my local bike mechanic and he was telling me the agony and frustration of installing tubular tires. So now I'm wondering if I should switch out the wheels or just give the tubulars a go. Any thoughts?
07-03-07, 11:12 AM
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woopie, last I heard the Black Lightning was a sweet frame, I say give the tubies a shot, at the very least you have a awesome frame.
07-03-07, 12:04 PM
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That is a nice set of wheels you have. Buying a similar clincher set along with tires and tubes will set you back some change. But then good tubular tires are not real cheap either. Tubies can be a pill to install if you have not done them before. Do a search in the forums or Google and you will find numerous articles to help you along the way. Try the tubies. You can always sell or trade them later.
07-03-07, 12:14 PM
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You got a pretty good deal on the bike. If you aren't inclined to mess with the tubulars, you could possibly sell the wheelset + tires for the $100 you paid if they are in good condition.
Check out Harris Cyclery for a desent price on a good all around wheelset:
https://sheldonbrown.com/harris/wheels/622.html
You will need to know the frame spacing (distance in mm between the rear dropouts where the wheel mounts) and number of gears.................
Good luck with the bike and post up a picture when she's road ready.
Check out Harris Cyclery for a desent price on a good all around wheelset:
https://sheldonbrown.com/harris/wheels/622.html
You will need to know the frame spacing (distance in mm between the rear dropouts where the wheel mounts) and number of gears.................
Good luck with the bike and post up a picture when she's road ready.
07-03-07, 01:16 PM
#5
ukenut
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The wheels are in good condition; however, the rear wheel looks like it needs to be trued. Just has a wee bit of a wobble in it. One of the tires is brand new and the other is nearly new.
And I think I'll give the tubular tires a try - what do I have to lose? A tube of tire glue is only about $5. And I will certainly post pics of the bike once it's ready to hit the road. I love that it's all black with gold decals (Vanderbilt University colors!!). And that it would look good with my dark suit.
And I think I'll give the tubular tires a try - what do I have to lose? A tube of tire glue is only about $5. And I will certainly post pics of the bike once it's ready to hit the road. I love that it's all black with gold decals (Vanderbilt University colors!!). And that it would look good with my dark suit.
