My Extralight is my all-time favorite bicycle. I also pulled off 7400 Dura Ace and the original fork.

I would either buy a different classic quill stem (Cinelli 1A or Nitto) and use it with a classic 26.0/25.4 handlebar, or I would switch out the fork, headset and stem entirely. I did the latter and dropped more than a pound. Otherwise, the Kestrel fork is a good one - I'd keep it if you are staying quill.

Your best new carbon fork bet is the Columbus Minimal 1". Make sure the uncut steerer length is enough. There are places in Italy that have the best prices. You can buy them "ready to paint" if you want a matte finish without decals - which is also a little cheaper.

For the finish, they use dry extra fine burgundy Scotch Bright pads at the factory. Fine will work well enough. Medium is too much (but maybe okay if you are oiling them.)




I have since upgraded to an Alpha Q fork.