thanks for the link and all the replies. i had already seen the catalog but i guess i didn't look at the options for the super letour. i guess mt fork looks like a chrome version available for that bike.

as for the brakes, you're right byrdwyngs, they are Matthauser pads. more new info to me, so i looked them up. they've not been made for a while, eh? is age an issue? you mention "cleaned up a bit" - what does this involve? i'll admit the cables/housings need replacement/readjustment, and i have some nicer leavers to use too. i'll most likely do this work when i get the rims replace so everything is fresh.

but there's still play in the calipers themselves - with the brakes engaged, they grip the rim just fine, but if you push a bit on the bike, say forward, the front calipers have some give/play (same if you push back when the rear is engaged). is this normal or is there an adjustment that needs to be made?

anyway, in the meantime, i don't think i'll have too much of a problem. i'm still getting used to being on a bike and being out there. i just want to avoid any major problem that would be a big safety issue.

thanks again for everyone's comments/help. this is a very useful enviornment full of really nice people.