Sunday, May 31, 2009

Rear deraileur


Not as beautiful as the earlier versions with the engraved Campy logo, but this one is in great condition nonetheless. Nothing too exciting about this, but it'll be a nice workhorse.

Friday, May 22, 2009

Synchro Shifters



Probably the second most ridiculous component on the bike. Known for their finickiness and lack of desired functionality, these beauties were Campy's attempt to do index shifting in the late-80's to early 90's. These are second generation synchro shifters (but after they did away with the designation between 1st and 2nd gen. why do I know this?). Interestingly enough, these are for 8-speed, which is far less than ideal with freewheel type hubs since it puts more stress on the axle than desired. I have no clue what kind of magic i'm going to have work to get them functioning as desired, but I will probably have the most success just replacing the cog for 8 speed indexing with a 6 or 7 speed version.


If nothing else, they'll work in friction mode and I can just make a clicking noise whenever I shift. ::click::click::click:: Oh, there's the gear I wanted....

Sunday, May 10, 2009

::trumpet fanfare:: Delta Brakes ::trumpet fanfare::


Building an Italian bike that's from 1986-1993? If it doesn't have Delta Brakes, it's crap. Less so for the actual performance and more so for the beauty/ridiculousness. A true case of form over function. Likely the most expensive single component on the bike. Ride them for the compliments, swear at them for their operation. This is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

The best part - these brakes were won on eBay using a friend's iPhone (thanks Danno) at Toronado from a seller in France. Most money i've ever dropped at a bar in one sitting... so far.

Monday, May 4, 2009

Headset (now with speed holes!)


Upon inspection, you may notice the Guerciotti already has a headset installed. It was described as a "boutiquey" period relevant headset from Shimano. But really, what business do Japanese parts have on an Italian frame? Think about the last time Italy and Japan were allied... that ended badly. Almost as catastrophic as that joke.

So on that note, more Campy! The most important part: this headset has speed holes. Literally. Why? because who doesn't like going fast? Whoosh!

Saturday, May 2, 2009

Cranks


While you're buying components for a vintage bike build, it is easy to come to the conclusion that money will in fact power your bicycle. In truth, that is only half of the story. So while your wallet will provide the tears, your legs are responsible for the sweat. Enter the mighty crank.

These get a lot of abuse, so finding beautiful ones is not easy. Most of the scuffs and wear don't really show in this picture. That's ok, yet more motivation to actually get out and ride the bike once it's done, unlike this.