I know that because of the low q-factor of the cranks some modern derailleurs will not work with them... how true is this really? could I not take a modern triple dura-ace?

My problem is that I need a triple that is also a braze on.. I was originally looking for a mavic triple but I have been looking on and off on ebey for over half a year and give up for now, all the while I have been commuting everyday on the bike. So combined with the upcoming swap and promise of some out of town rides I am ready to get this bike working.

The minimum I am looking for is something simple/clean looking, but of course I would rather something that doesn't look too out of place with the cranks.

I think the problem is not q-factor, but the tight spacing between the ring and the arm. You should be able to tell by looking at the cage if the arm is going to hit it. A cage that is relatively flat should work fine, but most modern cages are not flat.

just the outer cage though right?

They're not braze on but the Suntour 1st and 2nd generation Cyclone work flawlessly.

Scott

I had a Shimano 600 (double) clamp-on to work. I had to rotate it a bit, something you unfortunately can't do with a b-o. Recent FSA ones have a flat outer cage but only make doubles. It would work on a half-step+granny on the TA. Shimano makes b-o triples, outer cage seems pretty flat!

I think that the FSA Gossamer will work - and there is a braze on version.

apparently the gossamer only has a 16t capacity though, i guess i should have mentioned my current triple is 52-42-32 ... though i have been leaning towards a half step lately, or atleast a more useful outer chainring.

edit: just bid on a tiagra triple on ebay... they look really well made for the money! im constantly impressed by the quality of modern 'entry level' components.