Hello all,
My daily rider is usually what I refer to as my Bicycle Under Development (B.U.D.) I use the BUD to experiment with different combinations of components that may eventually find their way onto other bikes. I find that continual experimentation is, for me, a way to keep a nice sense of discovery about this avocation of ours. The components are typically on topic, with the occasional use of KOF bits.
Today's BUD is a 1982 Trek 613, 60cm. A very nice lugged steel frame and fork, Reynolds 531, original and straight, with nice pewter metallic paint. The paint, being Imron, looks as good as new, except for the typical marks and small dings from use.
The latest configuration uses first generation Dura Ace side pull brakes with drilled levers, Sakae stem, Sakae Modolo handlebar, with the original Tange headset. The wheels are first generation Dura Ace high flange hubs laced to Velocity Deep Vee rims, 32f/36r. A nice solid wheelset.
Drivetrain is a Bontrager Race triple crank with Dura Ace 7400 6 speed freewheel, 13/23. Shifters are Dura Ace EX downtube on a band. Seatpost is a very cool early Bontrager unit with a current Bontrager saddle. The Bontrager components are nice and sort of keep it all in the family.
I've been riding this rig for about 2 months and am pretty happy with it. So much so that I will now tape the bars! But I think I will keep the corks in the bar ends...
I am very fortunate to live in San Diego, where I can usually ride most days (when I'm here...) It's a beautiful area, and I will urge all my fellows from colder parts of the country to come and visit. I have a couple of nice loaner bikes...
The San Diego Custom Bicycle Show is coming up, and that is another outstanding reason to visit!
Best to all,
Chris Wimpey
San Diego, California