In my opinion, within the time period of 'On Topic' bikes, some of the best innovations have been cotterless cranks, the parallelogram derailleur, spring assisted or ratchet type shift levers, quick release wheels and brakes, plus all of the major improvements that have been made in alluminum alloys over the years which have given way to much more reliable components. Suntour bar end shifters, matched with a pair of Cyclone gear changers, a pair of good quality quick release brake calipers or levers, and just about any good quality forged alloy crankset, all helped make the bikes in this period much more enjoyable. Although there were many classics made throughout the CR timeline, the bikes being made by the late 1970's and early 1980's had become much more refined as far as being rider friendly, especially for the less experienced, or less serious rider. (Could you imagine the average rider today using a rod or lever shifted derailleur?) I have many bikes, but my favorites for daily riding have become those equipped with Suntour Barcons, Cyclone derailleurs, alloy rims, Q/R hubs, center pull calipers, and alloy cranks. Without the improvements in alloys we would be left with either heavy steel components, or fragile and dangerous aluminum pieces like the famed AVA stem.
Joe McKishen
Vineland, NJ
USA