Originally Posted by John E

I am no luddite, and I certainly appreciate modern tires, brake cable housings, and brake pads. I also consider a freehub/cassette system superior to a thread-on freewheel. However, I like to be able to feather the position of the front derailleur cage, and I recognize that the best way to improve a bicycle wheel's strength-to-weight ratio and its reliability is to increase, rather than to decrease, its spoke count. I also think most everyday cyclists appreciate a little extra frame-to-tire clearance, in case they someday want either wider tires or mudguards. As for frame materials, my experience and reading consistently favor steel for reliabillity, repairability, and adaptability (e.g. spreading a rear triangle). My bottom line is simply that a mid-to-high level vintage steel bicycle will often satisfy John Q. Public's needs exceedingly well, by providing decades of durable, reliable, economical, efficient, and enjoyable service.