I have a 2004 Specialized Elite Triple that I bought mostly for the 105 group. I love the 105 group and honestly the bike was better than I thought it was going to be as well. However what I really want is an old Italian steel bike with my newer group.

I have a few concerns:

1.) Headset size: can you still buy new forks (carbon?) that will fit in an old Italian frame? Where should I look?

2.) I live in Seattle and if I want my old (recently powder coated?) frame too look nice and keep the water off my butt I need fenders. Real fenders. Italian racing bikes don't seem to have mounts. Riv sells some cool mounts to prevent having to use the terrible strap-on fenders I'm currently using. But will I have clearance? These bikes were made for 27inch wheels correct? 700c and long caliper brakes should leave me with enough clearance right?

3.) If both of the above are major issues does anyone have a good recommendation for decent steel frames with modern steerer-tube compatibility and mounts + clearance for fenders?


Thanks!

- Ryan