Originally Posted by
Gerryattrick
I'm ready for a lot of searching on ebay or Gumtree (UK version of Craigslist)! For a decent Mercian or similar I might have to stretch the upper limit a bit.
Part of the fun is in the hunt, be patient.
Make sure that you only look for a very good fit, double check fit.
Make, tubing type & esoteric doo-dads are well & good but a there is no substitute for a proper fit.
Buying an entire bike & retrofitting w/ your modern kit may be the most cost effective path.
The club riders who you wrench for may be the best contact to un-earth classic kit in good nick.
Cycling clubs tend to be tight knit and can lead to "I know this guy who used to ride with us about your size........."
-Bandera