That's a hot bike! I was considering one of those myself, but it priced out a bit out of range. You should post a pic!

My Colnago C59, in the PR99 color scheme, looks old school--which is one of the reasons that I bought mine. :D

Brand new bikes with a classic or retro look are very much alive. Steel and titanium are the materials of choice. As you've discovered, there are still a quite a few Italian builders designing and building the traditional way. There are also no shortages of builders in the U.S. ranging from larger companies like Surly to small independent/boutique custom builders. Most will give you the option to purchase the frameset alone or a full bike. Custom builders will even work with you in completing your build with the exact components and accessories of your choice. One important aspect I appreciate about American custom builders is that they will give you the option of any design your heart desires: Italian, French classic, retro modern, etc. They generally tend to work closely with the customer in fine-tuning the ride and aesthetics.

In fact, we recently got delivery of this classic "randonneur style" bike from R+E Cycles (AKA Rodriguez Bikes) in Seattle. Some of its classic features include level top tube/stem, canti-V brake (built with Paul canti brakes), Pacenti twin plate crown fork. A spin on this build was adding S&S couplers and going out of the norm with 26" wheels to facilitate air travel. Aesthetically, we went with TIG welding with hand-painted faux lugs, 70-style fork & stays tips in white (originally wanted chrome tips but learned the process is not very environmentally friendly), retro stickers and lots of stainless steel throughout. Additionally, the build was completed with classic components and accessories: Brooks saddle, Nitto handlebar, fenders, mini front rack, King water bottle cages, etc. Obviously, being custom these were very personal choices.

http://img836.imageshack.us/img836/5...etrorando2.jpg

The custom touring bike, on the other hand, was built with sloping top tube, disc brakes, Rohloff belt-drive ready, and finished with lots of classic accessories. This puts it more firmly in the retro modern category.

http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/9056/rodutb4.jpg

Insightful comments, Pringle.

As requested. Please ignore the large spacer above the stem and saddle bag. I'm still dialing in my fit so I'll get the steerer tube cut soon enough.

https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphot...79741111_n.jpg

http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=308906
2011 Salsa Casseroll. I bought it because it looks understated and retro but with modern geo & parts. Proof positive it underwhelms.....I showed a pic of it to my hubby I snapped of it before I brought it home "Huh, are you sure that isn't a bike from the 70s? I don't even think you'll need to lock it up!"
lol! Exactly why I bought it.....I can wear my chucks, Levi's rolled up, cycling wool hat, and Surly merino jersey and look like I just rolled out of a time machine! Well, except fancy lug work. I sure wish they had some that to complete the vibe.

SOMA is selling a fillet brazed polished stainless steel (KVA MS2) Smoothie now.

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d7...ps0d088a60.jpg

Just ebay search vintage frames, NOS (new old stock). You will find plenty.

There's your answer. Richard Sachs has a long list of builders in his website too.

http://www.richardsachs.com/site/the-next-wave/

I chose Independent Fabrication.

Raleigh International is sweet...

BDB Pelican
http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=308922

Thanks; I like that! Looks like it's designed to put in fast, comfy, miles.

That is FINE!