SMS wrote:
> > If I were the original poster, I might look for a used Miyata 1000 or
> > Specialized Expedition (the old touring model, not the new hybrid
> > model). For $150-200 he could have a classic lugged touring bicycle. As
> > Sheldon Brown wrote, "The mid-80s Miyata 1000 was possibly the finest
> > off-the-shelf touring bike available at the time."
Ozark Bicycle wrote:
> Keys words: "AT THE TIME". That time was 20+ years ago. Spend $150-200
> for a 6SP bike with a non- index compatible drivetrain. If yer really
> lucky, the frame will have 120mm (Ultra 6) rear spacing. Oh joy. And
> then spend how much to get the thing up to modern performance standards
> in shifting, braking, etc.?? i.e., You're suggesting spending $150-200
> for a 20+ year old used frame and fork that likely needs to be modified
> to accept a modern drivetrain. Then, a new rear wheel, at a minimum.
> New FD, RD, headset, BB and shifters. Probably new brakes. New cables
> and housing all around. New saddle, etc., etc., etc. I like old bikes
> more than most people, but for the OP's needs, it makes next to no
> sense to do something like that. Not with something new like the
> Windsor Tourist available for $600 delivered to his doorstep.
Depends on your priorities. I would consider a mid-80s Miyata 1000 to
be a very fine _frame_, The dollar bought 260 yen in the mid '80s, so
you got a LOT of frame for your money.
The Miyata 1000 frame was comparable in materials and workmanship to a
new Atlantis or Rambouillet, to mention a couple of models we sell.
These framesets are well over a grand new. Since frames don't wear
out, one of these is a great choice for someone who wants a Japanese
lugged steel touring frame.
It is true that the generic tig-welded touring frames out of Taiwan
work fine, but some folks prefer something a bit more elegant.
The 120 spacing is trivial to upgrade on a good steel frame like these,
see:
http://sheldonbrown.com/frame-spacing.
The only serious potential issue is cantilever placement...most of
these were designed for 630 mm (27 inch) wheels, so the cantilever
placement may or may not work well with 622 mm (700C) wheels.
Sheldon "Lugs Are Nice" Brown
+-------------------------------------------------------+
| Le beau est aussi utile que l'utile --Victor Hugo |
| (The beautiful is as useful as the useful) |
+-------------------------------------------------------+
Harris Cyclery, West Newton, Massachusetts
Phone 617-244-9772 FAX 617-244-1041
http://harriscyclery.com
Hard-to-find parts shipped Worldwide
http://captainbike.com http://sheldonbrown.com