Originally Posted by
Andy_K
I think it's original. I've found evidence of at least one other, described in this Paceline thread:
https://thepaceline.net/forums/showthread.php?t=117821
The dots appear to be decals, but they're under a sort of sparkly clear coat that covers the entire bike and also the stem. The other thing I should have pictured is the rear stays. It has "S-bend" chainstays. Supposedly this makes it stiffer. I think that also may be part of the "Colorado Concept."
I actually thought about you while I was out riding it today. I didn't push it much because the brakes are barely functional (almost hit a couple walking their dogs because of that), but the first time I went up a hill I definitely noticed the response. I don't know if that was the Colorado Concept doing its job or the new bike euphoria doing its job. Either way, it reminded me of the way you described your Casati (and my brief parking lot experience with it). You'll have to come down and try this sometime and see what you think. The 24T cog on the freewheel might not be to your liking, but I'm sure I can find a corn cob to put on there for you.
As for the gearing, if I put a 14-28T freewheel on it, it will match what's on my Gios. I've got a plan to keep riding on that until I can handle at least moderate hills. I want to test the theory that I'm weak because I never push a big gear. I suspect that I'll find that I'm weak because I'm too old to build new muscle, but you never know until you try.
Interesting info. I found a reference - also from the Paceline forum - regarding a guy who was getting a "two-tone King of the Mountain" paint job at Serotta. He specifically used the term "refinish"; his post was from 2008 and quoted the price at $1400. So it sounds like the polka dot concept was from Serotta and not some whimsical approach to a respray by an owner.
Today I am beginning to enjoy 24 and even 26t cogs out back. My knees appreciate them, too
Too old to build new muscle? Is that a thing - because if it is, I'd not heard that before. Maybe that's why I don't necessarily get stronger, just faster, with accumulated miles.
Lastly, those brakes will work perfectly well if they're set up correctly and the pads are supple. I run them on my Davidson with the Ergo 8-speed and have never had a problem with braking. While not dual-pivots, they still have better modulation than the older Record calipers.
DD