Passing on Italian Steel
 

I was in the LBS, the one I go to for my bike lust, and almost fell for two used Italian steel wonders. One a Cologna, the other a Pinearllo(?sp) both at 60 cm (my size) but had tubular tyres(use to clincher), and 170 cranks(prefer 175), and the pedals were definate old school cleats. They did have the price with "or B.O." Would you take off the cost of new cranks, pedals and wheel set to make an offer? I was actually looking at them to convert one to a fixed gear, but would actually consider keeping them intact with the older Campy groupo on them, at least for a few miles to see if I liked what they had in them.

As it is I already have a bunch of project bikes that these would only be put in the que. I walked away, I suppose(hopefully) they will be there when the time is right.

My personal biases:
1) Classical Italian steel frames are great.
2) Old Campag. components are great.
3) You probably do need 175mm cranks, but not for a "fixie," because you cannot keep the inside pedal up through a tight turn.
4) I have no passion for fixed gear, with all the riding I do in hills and traffic, but I know plenty of folks who do. However, a multi-ratio fixed gear system, such as S/A ACS, would get me excited ...

it sounds as if you are not passing on the frames.....just the componentry & set up's