'Steel is Real' but "Chromed Steel is Real Shiny"
Okay, I've had a lot of road racing bikes. '72 Schwinn Paramount, '73 Raleigh International, '74 Masi Gran Criterium, 2 Teledyne Titans, Galo Mozzi (the chicken bike), Viner, 2 Colnago Supers, Masi 3V, Miyata, Schwinn Circuit, Cannondale(s), Trek(s). I'm sure there are more I can't remember now. There's no doubt about which gets the most attention. What should be one of the least exciting bikes on the list. The 100% polished chrome plated Columbus tubing steel Schwinn Circuit. I get complements every time out on how great it looks. People don't look too close at the rather plain looking lugwork on this model or the mundane Ultegra components. Since the frame decals are gone, it's a guessing game on what model it really is. Even long time Schwinn dealers aren't sure. "Ooooh, nice old Paramount" is a rather common comment. Look again at the lugs. No Nervex curly lugs. "Oh, must be a Super LeTour", nope. Tell them a it's a Circuit and they never heard of that model. Schwinn could chrome plate anything they wanted. I've seen a chrome kids 3 speed they made for Richard Schwinn when he was kid. Super LeTours, Travelers, Paramounts, even a Varsity. Chrome plating is easier to keep clean. I don't have to worry about scratching the paint so boxing or putting the bike in the car is no worry. You want a bike that attracts attention, chrome is it. You a builder who wants to show off really first rate work, chrome is it. The chrome magnifies every scratch and file mark whereas paint will hide them.
BTW, I bought this frame set used from Lou Deeter a number of years ago. I'd like to thank him for what has turned out to be a real winner.
Looking at those full chrome Hetchins at http://www.hetchings.org/
Rick Paulos
Iowa.