I wonder how the group feels about changes made to a bike from original when the changes were made in the period when the bike was a "new" bike. I will not be repainting my Raleigh Professional although it could use it and the Brown is not my favorite color. I am contemplating a change for my ItalVega to a Japanese Gruppo from its current Campagnolo gruppo; What do you think? For instance I changed my Raleigh International back in the day. i changed the Campagnolo double crankset to a TA triple. I changed the derailleur from a Nuovo Record to a Rally. I changed the brakes(calipers and levers) from Weinmann centerpulls to Gran Compe centerpulls. Shifters from Campagnolo to SunTour BarCons. I could change back because I never get rid of any "old" parts, having learned ths from auto restorations. Instance number 2: Schwinn Paramount. Changed from Campagnolo double to a triple. Derailleur from NR to Rally. Changed from Weinmann centerpulls to Campagnolo side pulls. Front brake only required a minor filing of the pad slot to get the pad down to the rim. Rear wheel required the use of a drop-bolt. Changed the wheels to 700c Weinmann Concaves. Shifters to SunTour BarCons. Number 3: One of my blue Peugeot PX-10s from white plastic to shimano Crane rear and 1st generation Dura Ace front derailleurs. Changed the shifters to Campagnolo with the round tightener not the litle bale tighterner. Of course I saved the derailleurs and shifters. I saved all the sew-up wheels(rims and hubs) and tires. I actually saved all the parts I removed. The Only thing I am short is one Record left arm and possibly the Weinmann brakes which I am going to replace. I am also looking for another crank arm repalcement. Hey, its been about 30 years, I'm entitled to lose a couple of things having moved around the country a number of times in that period. Your opinion as to whether I should put all the bikes back to original or just keep the parts for the next steward of these bikes. One more question: should I keep my other blue Peugeot with its steel crank or equip it with a TA or a Stronglight 49D, and set it up as a tourer. those are the only other period cranks I have right now. Or do you suggest the 63? thank you, John Strizek, Sacratomato California USA
Happy Holidays and: why is it a punishment for Black Peter to take you to Spain in the Winter? I understand the poor accomodations of going in a sack, but it's free!