Hello,

I'm a bit new to bike building - I'm trying to slowly build up a fast reliable mixte for my wife.

I've purchased a late 70's Fuji Gran Tourer SE with nice original paint, chromo frame, lugged all around. The whole bike was in time capsule condition - "Fuji" cranks, derailleurs, seat etc. (yes I will add a picture in a bit).

As far as I can tell, however, the components are all pretty cheap.

My question: Is this bike worth holding in a vintage configuration? Is the frame worth building up with modern components? Am I better of with this Japanese frame vs. a Gitane or Peugeot (which would be far cooler but come with french sizing problems)?

Any advice would be helpful.

Thanks

check out erasergirls thread about addiction.... she has taken on the task of collecting these bikes and has been refurbishing them....

here is the thread it is on.... good luck and have fun

https://www.bikeforums.net/classic-vintage/455951-starting-addiction.html

hey...no fair i don't know anything about those types of roadbikes
i'm just following my nose.
all i know about fuji's is that they have a cult following
try posting an image here and see what comments pop up
that should give you an idea about its relative value.

I think you'll be very happy with the Japanese mixte -- I have 2: A Lotus and a Suteki -- and a Peugeot and a Raleigh... and I prefer the japanese made ones.

BTW, don't assume the components are cheap or bad -- are they suntour?

+1 on keeping it Fuji.
The nicest mixte's I've seen, and the most functional, were a Fuji and a Centurion (Lemans), both Japanese.

FWIW, I'm switching my Peugeot mixte from Simplex to Suntour and from Rigida to Araya. Big difference.

Thanks all for the input.

Regarding components, Suntour derailleur and sugino cranks. However, if you pedal backwards (freewheel) the chain hops off of the chain tension pulley. I've oiled, cleaned etc, can't clear this up. Led me to wonder about a modern component instead of the oldie.

Overall, when I ride her bike vs. mine, it seems like I'm working way to hard for the speed I'm getting. I've got a Miyata 110 with upgraded drive train - is the difference all in my expensive wheel? Could the bottom bracket be bogging down? Is there enough resistance in a drlr to slow down the whole drive train?

A vague question like, "It feels like it drags" elicited blank stares from the local bike shop. Either I'm stupid, they're arrogant, or both.

Any help?

PS: Yes Yes, pix on home box, im now at work, will post.