Brian,
Over the years there's been a lot of conflicting information published about the differences between Tange #1 and #2 tubing, some of it from Tange themselves!
In addition, Tange may have changed the specs for these tubes over time too!
Here's the differences right from the 1981 Tange Tubing Catalog:
Top tube wall thickness:
#1 0.6mm x 0.3mm x 0.6mm
#2 0.8mm x 0.5mm x 0.8mm
Down tube wall thickness:
#1 0.8mm x 0.5mm x 0.8mm
#2 0.9mm x 0.6mm x 0.9mm
The seat tubes for both of these sets were double butted: 0.9mm x 0.6mm x 0.9mm
This was uncommon since most seat tubes are only single butted. That's why they take smaller diameter seatposts than a standard 27mm or 27.2mm.
The top and down tubes on Tange Champion #1 tubing were similar in thickness to Reynolds 753 (without the increased strength).
Tange Champion #2 tubing was similar in wall thickness to Columbus SL, Super Vitus 971 and the lighter gage Reynolds 531 sets.
As a comparison, many production frames made of Reynolds 531 during the 70s used main tubes with 1.0mm x 0.7mm x 1.0mm wall thickness. That was the same as Columbus SP tubing.
No need to feel sad...
Chas. Colerich
Oakland, CA USA
> Also, sadly, the decals specify Tange Champion #2 , not #1. I feel less of a man. But I guess that just means I have to start looking out for a 5000 with that super-light tubeset.