I have a wonderful Miyata 312 that is currently set up as a fixed-only bike. Since I have two other singlespeed/fixed bikes with flip-flop hubs, I really don't need three.

I love the ride so much that I'm considering converting back to a geared bike. I have all of the parts I would need. What I'm wondering is whether it would make sense to use a gorgeous Dura Ace partial group that I bought from an extremely nice BF member.

I was going to use the Dura Ace group on another bike, but ended up selling the bike to make room for one I wanted more than that one. Sound familiar?

Anyways, It will end up being a Frankenbike anyway, so what do you think about using the Dura Ace partial group on the bike and leaving the Exage brakes? The Dura Ace crank is the beautiful 70s model with black in the hollows of the arms and black chainrings. It and the FD, RD (Crane) and pedals came off of a 70s Paramount.

Here are pics of the components. The Miyata is an '89 and it black and gray. Beautiful beast it is.

Anyways, let's hear some feedback!

Sounds like a good option to me--any pictures of the bike as is now?

Put the DA on your Miyata and it will reward you.

I'll bet the black /grey colors would make a handsome complement too.

Thanks for the replies. I will post a before and after pic if I decide to do it. I really, really love the ride of the Miyata. I understand why people are so passionate about theirs.

I put a full 105 group on a trek 420, try it and if you like it leave it, can always move it on to the next bike later.

Dura Ace sounds/looks good to me. You can always change the brakes later if you happen to find them.

I was going to clean these up & ebay them, in the fullness of time... I think I have a set of similar vintage levers I have no need for, not 100% sure.

I concur, plus it's a project that you could easily reverse later anyways, so, no harm, no foul....

Great point. I'm going to do it. I have some extra DT shifters, but am going to look for some Dura Ace just to keep it somewhat close to a complete group.