Well the rain stopped me from getting pics yesterday so I obviously couldn't wait to tear into the bike. Took a break between the rain and got pics today. I really like the brushed blue finish - pics don't do it justice. It's almost like spun turquoise metal thread around the frame. The paint and decals are excellent.

I didn't like the clunky gray EX500 brakes, they don't work with the bike IMO, so off they came. I have a pair of low end Campy brakes in chrome that I may use. Might even be one of the few times I would consider black brakes, but don't know that I want to invest in that.

The Brooks saddle was a surprise. Don't know much about it, assume it's pretty low end. The LX mountain bike drivetrain still makes me laugh a little. It even says LX Mountain on the crank. The seat stays are every bit as steep as my Criterium so calling this a hybrid is funny. Is that even a mini granny gear in the back ? I really like the Araya wheelset. I was shocked at how light they were and still pretty attractive. I'll take 4 pair if anyone doesn't like them. A big jump from the second to third crank -- that thing is tiny. I am still a newbie, and know some have reservations about Techniums, but this is one sharp bike, surprised they don't get more publicity. I thought I would maybe change this over to a double, but I think I will keep it as is and see what happens. Worth every bit of the $140 I paid IMO. Seems like the perfect bike for those hilly rallies you guys talk about. The story behind this bike still intrigues me