I think many would acknowledge that vintage bikes made of Reynolds 753 are near the top of our collective salivation scale. Its also probable that most of us may never ride a 753 bike...and purchasing one will require deep pockets unless one finds a deal.
This said, a vintage bike mechanic and rider told me he preferred the ride quality of 531 above all other tube sets and 753 bikes were too stiff in comparison. Since 753 came out around the time when (race/road) geometries were also tightening-up, I wonder if ride quality was as much affected by this as by the supposedly stiffer tubing? Has anyone ridden a 753 bike with relaxed geometries and how does ride quality compare with 531? Since this question is highly subjective, I hope paying a fortune for a 753 bike won't skew your assessment too much as it probably would mine.
Jack Romans
Sacramento, California