Fuji or Centurion
 

I have recently found two bikes at yard sales. One is a Fuji Dynasty 12 the other is a Centurion Cavaletto. I want to build one of them up as a fixed gear--this will be my first build. Unfortunately, neither are ridable right now. Any thoughts as to which is a better choice (other than weight)? From the research I've done, neither bike is special. Should I consider selling both to try to get a better frame?

Thanks.

70's and 80's japanese lugged steel is better than most of the stuff you can get now.
Not special for the era, but special now :)
Either one is a great frame and will work for what you want it to :)

My first build was a centurion cavaletto. I spent more than I should have, but it was a great first build.

If I'm not mistaken, the Cavaletto is a lower model on the Centurion lineup. Not sure about the Fuji. You can find catalogs for both though. Check out ClassicFuji.com (I think) and here is a Centurion catalog from 1984 that shows the Cavaletto as the lowest rung on the Centurion ladder..

I'd skip both. There are better bikes to be found at yard sales, etc, for the same cost.

However, if the color or headbadge or condition is right, just go for it.

I try to find older Shoguns, early 80's: no braze-ons, Tange frame, generally great paint condition (Panasonic-made).
They can usually take 27's or 700's, nutted or recessed calipers (mild modifications) and have cool headbadges.
The more "standard" bb, head tube, and seat tube sizes make the build a lot easier, in many cases.

Not only that, but the price is excellent. Some people practically just give it away ?