I just finished building up and detailing out an '81 Peter Mooney bike I bought a while back. Frankly I bought it because I liked the graphics on it so much and those who know me know what a sucker for a pretty face I am.
With new tires, and lots of adjustments and paint all touched up, etc. it sat all night last night waiting to be ridden.
I got it out this morning for its first real ride. I was just blown away. I have churned my way through at least a dozen high end American bike projects in the last couple of years, but aside from the Richard Sachs that Nick Z sold me (not a project by any means) this might be the nicest riding bike I have ever been on. It was just so smooth, comfortable and stable yet responsive that it immediately inspired confidance and I started looking for the steep hill I use near my house to check fast downhill stability. Like a rock. I bonded with it nearly instantly, and I probably don't bond with one in ten bikes that I own. I was just grinning from ear to ear.
I even had to admit that the half step gearing with Shimano Deore derailleurs was wonderful. So quick and crisp that it was very nearly like having indexing on the bike. Now I say this from the position of being a confirmed Campy snob, too.
At any rate, I am wondering if others have found Peter Mooney bikes to be this nice and if others are interested, I've got some pics I'll send out to them. Drop me a line, as Richard says "If you are interesting".
Tom Sanders
Lansing, Mi