Forgot to add that at the time (1984) it was close to a shock to see Eddy Merckx offering Shimano and Reynolds on the same bike for the first time.
Chuck Schmidt
Chuck Schmidt wrote:
>
> Well, I'm another in agreement. Around 1884(?) Eddy Merckx introduced a
> new bike and used Reynolds 753 for the first time: red to white fade
> "Grand Prix" model with his new graphics and Shimano 7400. This was
> after Moser was racing on Shimano instead of Campagnolo. I thought the
> stuff looked _very_ classy with the epoxy fill logo and grey anodizing!
> I still love that bike!
>
> Eddy's comment on the new at the time index shifting was that the Junior
> racers were using it as a test and that it didn't work too long in the
> Belgian mud.
>
> Chuck Schmidt
> South Pasadena, California
> another perfect spring day in SoCal
>
>
>
> RMAugust@aol.com wrote:
> >
> > I've been reflecting on this issue of the classic bike pinnacle and I have to
> > add one for consideration. If someone already mentioned this and I missed it,
> > apologies to them and all.
> >
> > A fine lugged mid-1980s frame with an early Dura Ace 7400 group. Sure it
> > indexes but it has a friction option too. The 126 oln is acceptable and the
> > early ones were fitted with wide 6 speed freewheels, later 7 speed freewheels
> > then cassettes. The finish on every component is beautifully done. The single
> > pivot calipers are elegant, silky smooth and light action. In fact overall
> > the group performs at least as well as it's Campy competition.
> >
> > I accept that much has been copied from Campy, who better to copy. I accept
> > the rear deraileur owes its design essence to Suntour. I also recognize that
> > the little plastic and gray anodized bits aren't "classic" but overall it's
> > stunning. OK, now I'm ready to be beaten to a pulp!
> >
> > Randy
> > Corral De Tierra, Ca.