In a message dated 1/10/01 7:03:11 AM Pacific Standard Time, KCTOMMY@email.msn.com writes: 2nd question: Another impulse buy: a Sampson Stratics crankset is coming my way. Does anyone have any road experience with these? In particular, what type and length of bottom bracket do they take? When were they made, how many were produced, and did they have any particular idiosycracies (that is, do I dare ride it or will it kill me)? >>
Good Morning, Tom,
Sampson, located in Denver, Colorado, used to have their own line of components. They had a great table set up at the Velo-Swap in Colorado in 1994. I was so happy with the prices they offered at that swap that I have their "Velo Swap Price List" until this day! They offered their 1994 Stratics Road Cranks in 175 or 177.5 for $100. They also had a Stratics model MTB crank. They also listed Suntour SL front and rear derailleurs for $4 and $9. They manufactured a Stratics titanium bottom bracket in a variety of sizes. I own one with 112mm spindle width that I recently installed but haven't road tested yet. I have also seen one for sale at a local shop here but do not know the spindle length or if it is English or Italian threaded. I can find out for you if you are interested. I also bought their titanium road hubs at that swap. One good thing about their Ti rear hub is it perfectly accomodates a Sachs 8 speed freewheel. From my experience, it is difficult to find a freewheel hub that perfectly accomodates an eight speed freewheel. I know I am currently "off topic" for the CR list, but in order to answer Tom's second question properly, I had to veer "off topic". I hope that is acceptable conduct.
Dave Field
San Diego, CA