As a preface to the following: I don't like to be annoyed. And where bikes are concerned, I tend to be a bit fastidious.

The Super Course is back together. It all looks great and I'll post a picture later. I also got it shifting and braking well on the stand in the garage last night. So I slapped on a new Romin saddle and took it out for its first 30-mile test ride after work tonight. Observations follow.

Pros:

I love the lightweight steel frame. I'll guess this '84 Raleigh frame is at least 5 lbs. lighter than the '80 Nishiki, my favorite ride currently.

I like how it looks. The chrome fork, chain stays and dropouts are . . . . I don't know; amazing. Drew a small crowd at the MB Starbucks. "Is it new?" "Where can I buy one?" "Do you know any good agents?"

Unlike the smaller Nishiki, this bike fits me as is. And if any of you haven't ridden a classic steel bike with new, packed bearings stem to stern. . . . well, I feel sorry for you. :-) I had a wind at my back along the ocean for the last 3 miles and I felt like I was on a perpetual motion machine. These moments, as much as any others, may be why we ride steel . . . .

CONS:

I really don't like the "Arrow" Shimano rear or front derailleurs. Despite multiple adjustments, both derailleurs seem to shift with inordinate drama and minimum efficiency. Annoying. I'll continue messing with them for another few days and will then most likely replace them with something a bit more modern.

The front brake - it pulses. Can't find a seam in the trued front wheel to explain that, although there must be one. And the rim is still shiny; no brake tracks. It's a puzzle, and it's annoying. The LBS is looking for replacement pad assembly; I hope they find one.

And that's it so far. Definitely a keeper. Definitely not dialed in. At least not yet. DB