I am about to build up my second Specialized Allez junk bike. The first one was an Allez Pro that I rebuilt, adding nothing to increase value.


Sadly, that bike was sold even before the riding season got underway. But, I did get a chance to ride it a few times and the bike was a treat.

So, I got lucky a while back and found another Allez, this time one of three hundred stolen bicycles, which I asked if I could have.


No problem and I brought that dented up, rattle can disguised and generally fitted with a horrible mismatch of components, home. I was hoping to Single Speed the bike since that is what I most like to ride around the city, but the Specialized has vertical drops so not SS for that baby.


With that in mind, and knowing that the top tube is dented beyond proper repair, I am giving consideration to spreading the stays, to accommodate a Shimano 105 eight speed rear hub. I already have a complete Shimano 105 eight speed grouppo, great period correct rims and everything else I need to build that bike up.

Perhaps I will start today. After all it is Friday, and I have gotten into the habit of giving myself Fridays off from being randyjawa. You have no idea how much of my time that fellow takes up.