Well, Gary, at least there are two of us who hold that opinion. What strikes me about the current Campy line is how LITTLE difference there is between models. Record, Chorus, Daytona, Veloce, Mirage all share the same basis design and can't be distinguished from 20 feet. The more expensive lines are differentiated by slightly better finish, a bit of gratuitous carbon fiber and titanium, and earlier adoption on the next increase in rear cog count. No doubt the bearing quality is a bit better for the top lines, but the general difference between Record and Mirage is tiny compared to the difference between the NR rear derailleur and the Gran Tourisimo boat anchor back in the 70's. I have one modern Campy grouppo, a Chorus I bought about 3 years ago and still haven't installed (too many classic projects). This is intended for one of a matched pair of 1997 Bianchi TSX/UL frames. For the other, I think I'll buy Daytona, as the minimal differences between Daytona and Chorus or Record isn't worth the additional money. I think one of the ways Campagnolo has actually improved since the classic era is that they have learned how to make (or have made for them) good quality moderate priced components. The Valentino stuff they made in the 70's was junk. In fact, I'd say moderate priced components in general are a better value today than in the 70's. I guess not all the changes have been negative.
Regards,
Jerry Moos
-----Original Message----- From: garry nold [mailto:lksbks@ix.netcom.com] Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2001 2:23 AM To: josephine nardi koebler; Sheldon Brown Cc: Aldo Ross; Classicrendezvous@bikelist.org Subject: Re: [CR]Taiwanese Campy?
I have a brand new Veloce front hub sitting in front of me right now. I
totally disagree with the blanket statement:
> Yes, the current low end Campy groups are junk.
It certainly is not as nice as my older Record hubs with ground races, but
it is most certainly as good as a Shimano 105 or ultegra. I will say that I
do not care for the newer Mirage der's that have the stamped steel outer
plate, but once again they work great. I don't really care who may make
parts for Campagnolo, so long as they work good and Campy honors their 3
year warranty does it really matter? Other companies have subbed out lots of
work for many years, why should we have an issue with Campy doing it too?
Think I'll go build some new wheels.....
Garry Nold
lksbks@ix.netcom.com
Lacey, WA