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Old 06-29-09 | 06:11 PM
  #5  
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mihlbach
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Joined: Dec 2005
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From: Long Island, NY
Originally Posted by Innergetic
I can get a new Mercier TT with 520 reynolds for the same price as reviving my '70s Motobecane (2040 no-mo) with an IRO build kit + wheelset.

Mercier has a better frame, but the IRO wheelset would definitely be better as would the drivetrain...

Suggestions?

Keep in mind this is all $350 or under.
Get the Kilo TT and sell the Motobecane. Old french bikes are a big PITA. Trust me, I've gone that route. The threads in the BB and fork are obsolete sizes, as are the stem, headset, and seatpost diameters. Its not easy to find compatible parts. The frame is designed for 27" tires, which, if you get 700c wheels, will make you buy long-reach brakes, your bottom bracket will be lower than intended, and you'll end up with a bunch of ugly extra clearance in your frame and fork.

I had a beautiful 1970's Motobecane Grand Jubilee. It ride like **** and lasted 700 miles till the damn seatube cracked in half and all that time and money I dumped into is was a total waste. Don't trust old vintage steel. You have no idea how fatigued the tubes are. If you into vintage bikes, thats one thing, but if your just looking for something to ride, its simply not worth the trouble.
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