I'm trying to decide which bike to build up and I can't decide between using my early 70's blue Peugeot U08 frame or the same period PR10 frame. Both are in excellent shape, but as some of you know, the PR10 has Reynolds 531 in the 3 main tubes and the U08 is all just plain tubing. My question to you is this: When taking into account the weight and performance factor in the better PR10 frame, is it worth using over the U08, which is beautiful blue, that I wold prefer to use aesthetically, or should I just build the PR10 (the finish on this one is pretty sick too, white and black you know?) I won't ever have both frames parted out together, so I can't just compare their weights by hand. Any suggestions?

I'm pretty sure that, built up with the same components, the PR10 will be about 2 pounds lighter.

it's like racing secretariat agianst a mule. i'm pretty sure you know the answer!!!

i kind of like riding a mule though you know? it's fun to pass people on.

The frame weight is only a very small part of the perfromance difference of a PR10. The big differences come from geometry and the tubular wheelset. The decision should be based on your intended use and preferences, not the weight. If you want a sports tourer for light recreational use or commuting, then choose the UO8. if you want a performance oriented bicycle for fast rides or competition, then choose the PR10.

I have owned two early 1970s UO-8s and a 1980 PKN-10 (successor to the PR-10), and have ridden them extensively. The PR-10 will give you about a 2-lb. weight advantage over the UO-8, in addition to a livelier, more resilient ride. It also has an integral derailleur hanger, which you can easily adapt to accommodate a SunTour or Campagnolo derailleur if you do not care for Simplex. I give it a solid nod over the UO-8.

Thanks John E. I'm goin' for it.

Assuming it fits you properly, you won't regret it -- the PR/PKN-10 is the poor man's PX-10.