Almost everything I know about bikes I learned either here or from Sheldon Brown (RIP). Some of the most useful stuff I've learned from you guys:

-High quality, affordable replacement parts that work well with a vintage bike, i.e. Sun CR18 rims, Panaracer Paselas, Kool Stop Continentals, grade 25 bearings, Jagwire cable in bulk.

-How to recognize older quality components, i.e. tubing stickers on frames, forged dropouts, pantographing, lug work.

-How to repair or restore older parts, i.e oxalic acid baths for frames, proper polishing technique and tools for aluminum, how to properly run new cable housings.

What has saved saved me the most time, money, and frustration though has been what you guys have told me to avoid i.e Dura Ace might be top of the line, but it's not necessarily compatible with other Shimano stuff, Cinelli stems are very nice but make sure you have handlebars that fit, etc.


And pictures. Pictures are what make this sub-forum. I think C&V posts more pictures as a group than any of the other sub-forums, therefore it's the most helpful.

Hope this helps.