here is my '73 (?) UO-8. i have since replaced the 27" rear with a 700c. added a rear rack, and gotten rid of the death stem and original steel bars and levers. i also had to replace the plastic simplex RD when the housing around the limit srew cracked and sent the chain into the spokes. it now is running a shimano skylark RD. i love this bike and i dont think i'll ever get rid of it. It is my first real road bike. I use it for everything... commuting, recreational riding, racing (alleycats and such), and group rides. As heavy as it is, i can still keep up with these aluminum/carbon machines. I plan to win my first race with it on sunday (6mi sprint). wish me luck!!