In the course of refurbishing several vintage lwts, I have noticed that almost every rear axle is bent (incl Campy). Considering my junkyard/thrift-shop sources of bikes it is not altogether surprising but I think it emphasizes a weak link in design (unsupported axle length). I can't help thinking that even if the axle is not permanently deformed its probably bending under load and this can't be good for bearing alignment and free-running. Of course we never see this since we adjust unloaded.
I also wonder if the fattening of America isn't putting our lightweights at risk. When the bikes were designed it was probably unusual for a rider to be over 175 lbs yet many of us are probably pushing 200 or more.
I have yet to find a Helicomatic axle bent although plenty have relatively rough races. This is one of several reasons why I like the Helicomatic. I guess the Shimano cassette solves this problem but it doesn't classify as vintage, or does it?
Jack Romans
Sacramento, CA