Evolution! or... It Seemed Finished at the Time.
03-16-19 | 09:28 PM
#1
Thread Starter
I AM AI
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 4,289
Likes: 1,171
From: Tucson, AZ
Bikes: 2008 S-Works Roubaix SL, 1979 Raleigh Comp GS, 1978 Schwinn Volare
Evolution! or... It Seemed Finished at the Time.
So I'm looking at the Volare the other day, thinking: Alright, yeah. That sucker is finally finished.*
...And I got a serious sense of deja vu. As if maybe I'd thought that somewhere, sometime before. Like when I set it up single speed and absolutely fell in love with the frame and the ride:
...or when I missed the top-end speed and added some Cyclone derailleurs. Long cage and wide gears for all-purpose goodness:
...or when I was sure that setup demanded barcons. At which point some Superbe non-aero brake levers were an obvious choice as well:
...and when I realized that no, actually I hated the barcons so I found some NOS Cyclone levers. Yep. Thought it was finished then, too:
...and here I am now, thinking for sure this is it. Done. Racier, with narrower gearing and short-cage RD. Superbe shift levers back on there. Red tape solved the aesthetic issues created by the skinwall tires. And it's all over but the ridin', so to speak:
...and the punchline is I actually left out a few in-between, transition versions of this monster. When I think about it I realize two or three other bikes have undergone this process as well, where it's less a "build" than a trial-and-error evolution toward that just-right balance of whatever the hell it is I'm looking for at the time. In this case it's been about a half-dozen iterations in 15 months. End result? Pretty freakin' sweet.
But man. Who else takes this route with their bikes? Let's see some evolution!
*Finished, in this case, does not include an upcoming wheel rebuild on new rims. The word has become borderline meaningless anyway.
...And I got a serious sense of deja vu. As if maybe I'd thought that somewhere, sometime before. Like when I set it up single speed and absolutely fell in love with the frame and the ride:
...or when I missed the top-end speed and added some Cyclone derailleurs. Long cage and wide gears for all-purpose goodness:
...or when I was sure that setup demanded barcons. At which point some Superbe non-aero brake levers were an obvious choice as well:
...and when I realized that no, actually I hated the barcons so I found some NOS Cyclone levers. Yep. Thought it was finished then, too:
...and here I am now, thinking for sure this is it. Done. Racier, with narrower gearing and short-cage RD. Superbe shift levers back on there. Red tape solved the aesthetic issues created by the skinwall tires. And it's all over but the ridin', so to speak:
...and the punchline is I actually left out a few in-between, transition versions of this monster. When I think about it I realize two or three other bikes have undergone this process as well, where it's less a "build" than a trial-and-error evolution toward that just-right balance of whatever the hell it is I'm looking for at the time. In this case it's been about a half-dozen iterations in 15 months. End result? Pretty freakin' sweet.
But man. Who else takes this route with their bikes? Let's see some evolution!
*Finished, in this case, does not include an upcoming wheel rebuild on new rims. The word has become borderline meaningless anyway.
__________________
A race bike in any era is a highly personal choice that at its "best" balances the requirements of fit, weight, handling, durability and cost tempered by the willingness to toss it and oneself down the pavement at considerable speed. ~Bandera
A race bike in any era is a highly personal choice that at its "best" balances the requirements of fit, weight, handling, durability and cost tempered by the willingness to toss it and oneself down the pavement at considerable speed. ~Bandera
Last edited by Fahrenheit531; 03-16-19 at 09:34 PM.
03-16-19 | 09:47 PM
#3
With chrome lugs, tan sidewall tires were the correct call, just took a few iterations to get there.
I just assembled a provisional build on my son’s next bike. Aesthetics are not sorted at all but it works well enough and fits him much better.
His last bike, a mid 80’s Masi GC fit him when he was 61” tall, now 67”. It was time.
New mount? A 90’s Masi Team 3V. Needs a longer stem, but it will work out.
I just assembled a provisional build on my son’s next bike. Aesthetics are not sorted at all but it works well enough and fits him much better.
His last bike, a mid 80’s Masi GC fit him when he was 61” tall, now 67”. It was time.
New mount? A 90’s Masi Team 3V. Needs a longer stem, but it will work out.
03-16-19 | 10:23 PM
#4
Master Parts Rearranger
Joined: Mar 2015
Posts: 4,851
Likes: 2,833
From: Portlandia's Kuiper Belt, OR
Bikes: 1987 Woodrup Competition - 2025 Trek Checkpoint SL 6 Gen 3 - 1987 Lotus Legend - 2024 Trek Emonda ALR Rim Brake - 1980 Trek 510 - 1988 Cannondale SR500 - 1985 Trek 670 - 1982 Trek 730
I like so many forms of your Volare!
My '74 Paramount has been through nearly as many compositions, from period correct to touring triple with downtube shifters, then with STIs (very briefly), then back to downtubes but with fenders for rain riding, then 10-speed barcons (3x10), then a black/stealth heavy 2x9 with a compact crankset, and now finally an 'advanced' 2x11 setup with Campagnolo EPS (which I think looks smokin' hot). I liked nearly all of my compositions for that bike, and built them and changed them for perfectly good reasons. I think I had the period correct stuff on it for a year before I began messing with it. Oh well!
My '74 Paramount has been through nearly as many compositions, from period correct to touring triple with downtube shifters, then with STIs (very briefly), then back to downtubes but with fenders for rain riding, then 10-speed barcons (3x10), then a black/stealth heavy 2x9 with a compact crankset, and now finally an 'advanced' 2x11 setup with Campagnolo EPS (which I think looks smokin' hot). I liked nearly all of my compositions for that bike, and built them and changed them for perfectly good reasons. I think I had the period correct stuff on it for a year before I began messing with it. Oh well!
03-16-19 | 10:41 PM
#5
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2018
Posts: 1,325
Likes: 357
From: Eugene, OR
I really like the Volare in its current form. It looks way sharp, and gives a strong impression of a fun ride!
I also appreciate the account of the ever changing build, and the recurring sense of the bike being “finished,” or “done,” at each stage along the way.
Its too soon in the process to provide photos, but I have a strong feeling it’ll be a similar experience with my Gary Hale. The bike was purchased in December and began riding it daily in its single speed configuration, just falling in love with the frame, the ride quality, and handling. Plans to redress it in full Record came up, and I gathered all the parts to make it happen.
As rebuild time began to get near, I realized I didn’t need a bike that was worth three times my rent, especially if it was one that shouted “steal me.” So a last minute decision to “downgrade” components led me to go with some of the finer Japanese offerings, So far, Superbe Brakes & mechs, and a Mighty Compe crank are at the forefront of my inspiration.
As of yet, I’ve only installed the brakes. I’m impressed with them. Soon I’ll get that double crank, and derailleurs set up with a 6 speed freewheel in back.
Its exciting! I think I’m preferring the piece meal approach to this bike more than I would a all at once build. But either way, I have to really wonder if it will ever honestly be “done.”
The Gary Hale as purchased...
And as it sits most recently. Fenders off, Cinelli bars & stem, Concor saddle, Superbe brakes and levers (too low on the bend. What was I thinking?).
I also appreciate the account of the ever changing build, and the recurring sense of the bike being “finished,” or “done,” at each stage along the way.
Its too soon in the process to provide photos, but I have a strong feeling it’ll be a similar experience with my Gary Hale. The bike was purchased in December and began riding it daily in its single speed configuration, just falling in love with the frame, the ride quality, and handling. Plans to redress it in full Record came up, and I gathered all the parts to make it happen.
As rebuild time began to get near, I realized I didn’t need a bike that was worth three times my rent, especially if it was one that shouted “steal me.” So a last minute decision to “downgrade” components led me to go with some of the finer Japanese offerings, So far, Superbe Brakes & mechs, and a Mighty Compe crank are at the forefront of my inspiration.
As of yet, I’ve only installed the brakes. I’m impressed with them. Soon I’ll get that double crank, and derailleurs set up with a 6 speed freewheel in back.
Its exciting! I think I’m preferring the piece meal approach to this bike more than I would a all at once build. But either way, I have to really wonder if it will ever honestly be “done.”
The Gary Hale as purchased...
And as it sits most recently. Fenders off, Cinelli bars & stem, Concor saddle, Superbe brakes and levers (too low on the bend. What was I thinking?).
Last edited by deux jambes; 03-16-19 at 11:43 PM.
03-16-19 | 10:57 PM
#6
Senior Member
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 2,841
Likes: 538
From: Seattle WA
Bikes: 2009 Handsome Devil, 1987 Trek 520 Cirrus, 1978 Motobecane Grand Touring, 1987 Nishiki Cresta GT, 1989 Specialized Allez Former bikes; 1986 Miyata Trail Runner, 1979 Miyata 912, 2011 VO Rando, 1999 Cannondale R800, 1986 Schwinn Passage
Fiddle much? 
I have a bike that has been a compact double, and fendered triple and has been a fenderless fat tired 1x9 for the last 6 years. I think its endemic of this forum to fiddle
I have a bike that has been a compact double, and fendered triple and has been a fenderless fat tired 1x9 for the last 6 years. I think its endemic of this forum to fiddle
03-16-19 | 11:23 PM
#7
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 22,676
Likes: 2,643
From: CID
Bikes: 1991 Bianchi Eros, 1964 Armstrong, 1988 Diamondback Ascent, 1988 Bianchi Premio, 1987 Bianchi Sport SX, 1980s Raleigh mixte (hers), All-City Space Horse (hers)
I wish [MENTION=101819]Sixty Fiver[/MENTION] still hung out here. He had some good stories of bikes that went through several iterations as need or fancy dictated. 
I know [MENTION=84826]randyjawa[/MENTION] has a couple too.
I know [MENTION=84826]randyjawa[/MENTION] has a couple too.
03-17-19 | 12:33 AM
#8
www.theheadbadge.com
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 29,026
Likes: 5,538
From: Southern Florida
Bikes: https://www.theheadbadge.com
Granted, if you wanted to take it over the top...throw a set of red Bluemels Club Specials on it.
-Kurt
__________________
03-17-19 | 04:40 AM
#9
Hump, what hump?
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 1,963
Likes: 305
From: SC midlands
Bikes: See signature
Evolution... I like that concept. Nice bike, BTW, in every stage presented.
__________________
2010 AB T1X ** 2010 Cannondale SIX-5 ** 1988 Bottecchia Team Record ** 1989 Bianchi Brava ** 1987 Centurion Ironman Expert(2) ** 1985 DeRosa Professional SLX ** 1982 Colnago Super ** 1982 Basso Gap ** 198? Brian Rourke ** 1970 Raleigh Professional MK I ** 1952 Raleigh Sports
2010 AB T1X ** 2010 Cannondale SIX-5 ** 1988 Bottecchia Team Record ** 1989 Bianchi Brava ** 1987 Centurion Ironman Expert(2) ** 1985 DeRosa Professional SLX ** 1982 Colnago Super ** 1982 Basso Gap ** 198? Brian Rourke ** 1970 Raleigh Professional MK I ** 1952 Raleigh Sports
03-17-19 | 10:06 AM
#11
Thread Starter
I AM AI
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 4,289
Likes: 1,171
From: Tucson, AZ
Bikes: 2008 S-Works Roubaix SL, 1979 Raleigh Comp GS, 1978 Schwinn Volare
[MENTION=401497]RiddleOfSteel[/MENTION]: What are those whitewall tires in the first pic?
__________________
A race bike in any era is a highly personal choice that at its "best" balances the requirements of fit, weight, handling, durability and cost tempered by the willingness to toss it and oneself down the pavement at considerable speed. ~Bandera
A race bike in any era is a highly personal choice that at its "best" balances the requirements of fit, weight, handling, durability and cost tempered by the willingness to toss it and oneself down the pavement at considerable speed. ~Bandera
03-17-19 | 10:18 AM
#12
Bianchi Goddess
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 28,973
Likes: 4,241
From: Shady Pines Retirement Fort Wayne, In
Bikes: Too many to list here check my signature.
My '86 Volpe went through a few different iterations
More or less stock but with a Campi LC RD
Lots of changes racks fenders, stem. I thought the Celeste fenders would be cool but then I didn't like them.
I tried Turkey Levers but again didn't care for them
Lots of changes. I think might be the final form for this bike, except probably a new saddle this year. The Woody's Fenders I bought for the Hetchins look fabulous on this.
More or less stock but with a Campi LC RD
Lots of changes racks fenders, stem. I thought the Celeste fenders would be cool but then I didn't like them.
I tried Turkey Levers but again didn't care for them
Lots of changes. I think might be the final form for this bike, except probably a new saddle this year. The Woody's Fenders I bought for the Hetchins look fabulous on this.
__________________
“One morning you wake up, the girl is gone, the bikes are gone, all that's left behind is a pair of old tires and a tube of tubular glue, all squeezed out"
Sugar "Kane" Kowalczyk
“One morning you wake up, the girl is gone, the bikes are gone, all that's left behind is a pair of old tires and a tube of tubular glue, all squeezed out"
Sugar "Kane" Kowalczyk
03-17-19 | 10:51 AM
#13
Master Parts Rearranger
Joined: Mar 2015
Posts: 4,851
Likes: 2,833
From: Portlandia's Kuiper Belt, OR
Bikes: 1987 Woodrup Competition - 2025 Trek Checkpoint SL 6 Gen 3 - 1987 Lotus Legend - 2024 Trek Emonda ALR Rim Brake - 1980 Trek 510 - 1988 Cannondale SR500 - 1985 Trek 670 - 1982 Trek 730
They were Kenda K34 white wall tires. 27" x 1 1/4" -- Not light by any stretch, and I ended up running them at 75 PSI to stave off the sluggishness as the bike let me know that she was quite fond of speed instead of putting around.
03-17-19 | 12:28 PM
#14
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 12,567
Likes: 2,740
From: Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada - burrrrr!
Bikes: 1958 Rabeneick 120D, 1968 Legnano Gran Premio, 196? Torpado Professional, 2000 Marinoni Piuma
Personal bike evolution...
Legnano GP as found...
Build one...
Build two...
Build three - in the works for this summer and will see some new components, long sought after...
NOS crankset and bottom bracket...
Legnano embossed Campy HF hubs (1960)...
Legnano embossed head set...
And a new Brooks saddle. Might even consider new paint but pretty doubtful, at the moment.
Legnano GP as found...
Build one...
Build two...
Build three - in the works for this summer and will see some new components, long sought after...
NOS crankset and bottom bracket...
Legnano embossed Campy HF hubs (1960)...
Legnano embossed head set...
And a new Brooks saddle. Might even consider new paint but pretty doubtful, at the moment.
__________________
"98% of the bikes I buy are projects".
"98% of the bikes I buy are projects".
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