Thanks guys for your help. I've learned a lot from everyone's input.

I plan to test ride the next one that appears for sale in my area. I would really love to own another Bridgestone (currently have a '91 MB-2).

I've really learned from these posts and appreciate everyone's help. I don't mind sacrificing a few things by going with an older bike. I guess I could always work on any shifting issues.

I think a big concern of mine is/was frame geometry but I'm not sure how much of a difference this would make as I'm willing to try to adapt the new bike (RB-1 or RB-2).

All is all this is very promising. Thanks!