I finished the white steel bike and attached is a pic. Some of you may remember my post about building up a bike and feeling the lines and movements of the various parts as they came together. The ecstasy of the front fork legs and the thrill mounting the bike and riding it. That was in reference to the tri bike which is also included.

I always appreciate a good lugged steel frame, and I like white, and I have always relished the satisfaction you describe, of putting a bike together and then taking it for that first shakedown ride (and many others thereafter).

Yup, those lugged frames are purty. I keep poring over craigslist looking for just the right one. But I may compromise on a butted frame, if I can find the right size frame comparable to the Miele I spotted today -- alas, the frame appears too small. But that curved chrome fork is a beauty.

Very nice-looking bikes! I'm just getting into steel road bikes, and that's a beautiful example.

Totally off the subject, but why are "tri bikes" so different from other bikes?

Tri bikes get the rider lower and weight forward for the aero bars. The sta typically are 76-78 degrees and the hta 75-76. The saddle position is also way forward that often has a shorter nose. You ride with hands on the bar ends and shift from the ends as well. The idea is get into the best aero position you can and stay there.

Wouldn't that all apply to any rider or racer who wanted to go long and fast? Seems like anyone who is racing would want the same advantages. Why just tri-athletes?

Drafting is not allowed in time trials and triathlons. And those aero positions wouldn't be safe in a crowded peleton. But it's perfect for unaided riders separated enough that you don't need ready access to the brakes.

Nice! You did a great job on building that bike.

The above answers are correct and there are some practical considerations also. When you come out of the swim part of the race you get on the bike. Dropping down into the aerobars with your weight on the arm rests is somewhat restful. Keep in mind you've given your upper body a hard workout in the water. The saddle forward and the angle your sitting also allows you to draw from different muscles in your legs. You still have a run to do after the bike section. If you need a snack and water, do it on the bike so you don't lose time.