Originally Posted by
SenatorBig
I am still sorting that out. I think would like to keep it relatively period correct, but im not worried if there are mismatched parts. Everything is dictated by French sizing, though.
I definitely plan to add Mafac Racers because I think they look good and I generally like center pull brakes. I have a set but I’m missing the stops and straddle wire hangers. I might just buy a complete set on eBay.
Mafacs are excellent brakes. The Competitions are really lovely but the Racers work almost as well. But choose levers that fit your hands. I use Nuovo Record levers by choice.
Aside from that, I originally wanted to replace the bars with Guidons Philippe bars, but I am not so sure at this point. I found the stem to be 22.2 which would indicate someone might have made some mods to the headset locknut. Might just leave the one on and find some other bars I like.
It’s more likely that the lower part of the stem has been sanded down to a 22.0 size. That is a pretty common modification, so it should be no problem to find a French stem and bars.
Drivetrain wise, it has a Sachs rear derailleur and Campag front. I am 50/50 on replacing any of it. I do I have a really nice Suntour Superbe rear, but we will see. I don’t recall if the old French stuff had a different hanger size. I love Stronglight stuff so the cranks aren’t going anywhere. I also have noodle legs and I live in Seattle so I’m going to stick with the freewheel that is on there.
The Simplex derailleur hanger if original would have an unthreaded hole with no obvious stops. If it’s been modified show us a pic so we can advise.
The cages and straps will probably have to go. It kind of bums me out because I really like the classic look of them, but I have bad feet and they generally cause pain. It would be cool to find some Lyotard platforms.
I’ve a pair of Lyotard platforms that I’d be willing to at least let you try. Unfortunately I’m in Merrie England now on our way to France. Back late Dec. Are you patient?