As a newbie to all of this, I'm still trying to work out whether the opinions here on various frames are a matter of fact, or snobbery.
I got into this hobby because of a rod-braked tank of a single speed, and a 1969 Raleigh Sport that would make a swell boat anchor, weight wise. Thus, things like alloy rims and 531 tubing meant nothing to me.
Now, I'm keen on putting together a sport-touring type 10-speed, but depending on what thread you read, the frame I've chosen to work with is either crap, or well worth using, though not worth much (namely, it's a 1973-era peugeot with fenders, possibly a uo8, but that's not the point).
So, my query: is a Reynolds 531 really that much better than what many refer to as gas pipe frames, or is it like fine wine, where the differences would quickly vanish if the name were covered up?
And if weight is that big a deal to the people here, why aren't they riding feather-light modern bikes, with carbon fiber bits, etc. (I'm sure the new ones handle and stop better too - though maybe I'm wrong?).
Finally, what is considered a low weight? Under 20 pounds? Under 25? And should I cut back on the number of sandwiches I pack, to help keep things light?
Please enlighten a three-speed owner looking to add a few gears.
Mike