I've written about it here a few times, and I've asked you guys lots of questions. And now she's done...went for the first ride today.

What a fantastic bike. She weighs in at 23 lbs...lighter than the 30 lb aluminum cyclocross bike I commute on. The seven lbs plus the road geometry made the bike feel like I had an extra spring in my pedal stroke. And the 4130 Cro-Moly lugged steel frame rides oh so nice. I'm a believer now.

I didn't go "period correct" on the restoration. For starters, I stripped and powdercoated. I tried to color match, but the color I got is a little more blue than the original color...which leans more towards metallic. I cleaned up most of the original drivetrain pieces though, including the Suntour Symmetric shifters, and the Cyclone Mk II derailers.

The cockpit has been refitted with a Nitto Noodle, and a Nitto stem. All attached to a 105 headset.

The crank...well, that was a bit of a coup. The LBS where I ordered the parts couldn't find the Sugino crank that I requested to replace the boat anchor that the bike originally came with. So the shop owner instead supplied me with a 105 compact double with outboard bearings...at cost! I LOVE these new Shimano cranks, both looks and function...so I simply smiled at my good fortune and the amazing deal he gave me.

Well, I've rambled enough. Now for some before and after pictures.



















Oh, and just because: