Originally Posted by eddiexchoi

I'm new here and needing some help with identifying the year/model of this bike and help rebuilding it. I would like to thank you or anyone in advance for taking your time to read my posting and giving me help. That is an '84 Special and as you can see the frame is Mangalloy steel.


People that I ride often always talk about steel bike and that "steel is real" so I did some research and wanted to get me one also. Came across a cheap and old Bianchi which didn't have much damage to the frame so I bought it. Didn't have 'much' damage to the frame? What is wrong with the frame.


I only been riding for about 2 years and had repair on few of the bikes that I've owned and have no clue what I need to do for this. I am looking to upgrade all the parts, including the drive train but not sure what would be the best. As I said in the PM I sent I would concentrate more on overhauling, cleaning and waxing the frame and tuning it up. A decent set of tires, a new chain (a KMC 7/8spd for around $10 should be fine), maybe new cables, and brake pads.

Lot of people told me to be original as much as possible but I rather have more gears. Any suggestions and/or recommendation would be greatly appreciated. While this Mangalloy frame will be great rider I would not go wild upgrading it. Maybe a set of tektro aero brake lever to make it look sportier (and I find the bigger aero levers more confortable) or more comfortable saddle. Maybe you can shop around and find some good used index downtube shifters, derailleur and freewheel but rather than put a lot of money into a new {or more modern** brifter group and wheels but save that money toward a nicer newer Bianchi.

I have some time to build this bike and have limited budget for now so it will be work in progress. Only reason I am building this bike is so that I can give my 2011 Cannondale CAAD 10 to my younger brother as a gift since he donated one of his kidney to our mother, which is priceless!