John Hurley wrote:
I can see a distinct possibility of severe buyer's remorse, of realizing too late that old steel gives deeper satisfaction, used, scratched and dented though it may be.
John,
My wife and I went cycling in northern Italy recently. You see a lot of riders on the road in full kit with the latest plastic bikes. After doing more climbing then I ever have before, on my steel bike, I caught a carbon virus. Very difficult to cure. I spent all winter shopping for a frame and parts. I was surprised to find every part I purchased has a very strong warning in the installation flyer. If you don't torque this part correctly you could crash and die. This part is only designed for a limited lifespan check for cracks every ride. This part should be replaced every three years. The ride may be wonderful this spring but I regret succumbing to the sirens already. I never have to worry about my steel bike self destructing under me without warning.
Mike Kelly Juneau, Alaska occasionally associated with the United States when it suites us.