Story I heard is that Mitch at MAP happened on to a small supply of NOS Competitions some time ago, so they were a preferred option for people who didn't want to go hunting for used brakes back when narrower tires were the norm on custom rando bikes. It is an awfully nice looking brake.

When I bought this MAP (used, from the original owner) I was sad the brakes weren't Paul Racers, and doubly sad that the bike was for narrow 700c tires rather than plush 650b. In fact, I was so sad that I had a Fitz custom built that is very similar to this one, but for 650b x 48mm tires. Now I own two overly nice bicycles. I keep thinking I should let the MAP go, but every time I go out on it I have a lovely time and set a PR somewhere.

It is kind of fun having two bikes near-identical but for tire width. Maybe someday I'll get around to doing my own tire testing, who knows.

Two more posts!