Help me get started with a project
 

Hi retronerds,
So, I grow weary of modern technology. I am looking to sell a 06 poprad and put together a retro ride on a bit of a budget. So, I am looking for a buttery smooth steel ride to "modernize" a bit, yet not *******ize. Update wheelset, crank/BB, to lighten up. Yet, I want to go with friction shifting as I have fallen in love with the barcons I have on my commuter (thanks cyclotoine!).

So, my question is, what type (make/model) of frameset should I be looking for? I am guessing a older 531 frameset but am uncertain.

I know this is a vague question, but perhaps you impassioned C&Vers have some suggestions. I don't want to break the bank with frameset purchase.
thanks,
zgjd

I grow weary with this post....

Sorry to contribute to your weariness.

keep you eyes open for good deals. If you really want to save money you can't want anything too specific. Generally, old steel treks and old japanese steel are still fairly cheap. You could just buy an old bike and transfer the parts you like from your 06 onto it.

In all seriousness why would you sell the poprad, I doubt you will find anything as versatile as that.

It really depends on what kind of riding you plan on doing and on what kind of terrain, as well as your physiology in terms of fit. Take a look at Dave Mann's explanation of frame geometries to get some ideas as what "style" of frame would work for your purposes: http://home.comcast.net/~pinnah/dirt...-function.html. Whether or not you want a frame made of Reynolds 531 isn't your best starting point!

Neal

Oh, don't get me thinking twice about this one! I do love the rad, but I picked it up for cheap and can flip it to make some dough, pocket some, and put the rest toward a nice steel ride. I have considered selling off the brifters and installing some nice hoods and barcons on it.

Brifters rub me the wrong way! I know it is all about adjustment, adjustment, adjustment, but I have had a heck of a time keeping it tuned to not rub. I like the friction shifting rather than mucking about with the brifters.

I think that's why I am in this forum. People seem to have an appreciation for the simplicity of the classic componentry.

Other ideas?

Old Bridgestones are pretty versatile. Touring frames are good possibilities as well. I have to agree with Nlerner, though, you need to ID how and where and how far you'll be riding, what position on the bike is most comfortable for you, whether you want to mount a rack and fenders, etc.

Centurions, Bridgestone, Panasonic, the list goes on. I'd look for chro-moly, in Champion low numbers or Tange low numbers. I don't know your budget, but Columbus if you go European, I'd say.

What size frame?

I've gotten 3 nice steel frame bikes on the road in the last year. And all at a budget of less than $500. I found 2 of them at thrift stores and another at a yard sale. I've gotten most of the upgrades from E-bay. I just installed a set of bar ends on the Schwinn and love them. They were the most expensive part I have had to buy so far at $65.00 shipped. The Ross is probably the lightest frame being Cro-moly, but the components aren't that great. Keep looking you'll find some bike that needs rescued..

Upper tier Trek, Nishiki, Univega, Panasonic, Miyata or Centurion (Bridgestones cost more). Raleigh International (pricey), or Raleigh USA 531C or 555RSL frame (undervalued). Japan-built Bianchi. Schwinn Premis or other butted or fillet-brazed frame. Stay away from French threading (Moto or Peugeot) unless you really know what you're getting into. Good Italian frames are harder to come by, and molto caro when you do.

I you're on a budget, a frame made of 4130 chrome moly is a nice, sweet riding frame material. Not a lot of difference ride-wise from 531.

A couple years back, I picked up an early 70's Fuji Finest made with their proprietary double butted tubing. That frame, with no exceptions, is the plushest riding bicycle I've ever ridden - and it's pretty sporty and responsive also. They aren't the easiest to find, but they done't break the bank either if you come across one.

I would find the deal first, look for a good steel lugged frame, pull the seat post to inspect for internal rust. I found an older (1987) steel Trek at Salvation Army for $18. I also found a 1993 Schwinn Criss Cross with Chrome Moly frame at a yard sale for $10. The problem with Thrift stores and garage sales is that they are hit or miss at best.

Be sure to get one with 700 wheels. The more flexible you are on brand and model, the more deals you are going to find.

Oh, come now.

27 inchers are just fine, and tubes and rubber are easy to find...