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Classic Colnago Steel

I received this frameset as a Christmas gift last year and it quickly turned into one of my favorite bikes.  I haven't spent much time trying to find out the exact model and year because, frankly, it really doesn't matter to me.  I have a serious appreciation of old steel, particularly Italian steel.   (Don't mistake me for a curmudgeon though.  I like carbon fiber too- I own a couple carbon bikes)  I was raised in my mechanical youth with steel and they still have a soft spot in my heart.

When I was younger I worked in a small shop in a small town.  The only Colnago bikes I ever saw were in a magazine.  To me they were rare and expensive, something I wanted badly but never thought I'd be able to afford one.  At that time the used bike market wasn't anything like it is today (how eBay has changed things!) and these types of bikes have become much easier and less costly than they were in 1990.

For the last few years, I've enjoyed building my classic steel bikes like new bikes - ergo shifters, carbon cranks, 10 or 11 speeds, etc.  Even though I really enjoy the simplicity and smooth lines of down tube shifters, I find that I'm more apt to ride a bike with ergo shifters.  I never thought I'd say that but that's how it is.  Campy ergo shifters are more comfortable and of course, easier to shift.  So what I end up with is a mix of older parts (I still like quill stems, the ride quality is great) along with newer components that make this bike and my others as fun to ride as any of my new bikes.


I built this Colnago with a Record 10 speed group, by far one of my favorite component groups. Shifters, brakes, derailleurs are Record while the crankset is Chorus.  In the 10 speed generation, it just didn't get any better than Record.  It works great and looks great.  The wheels shown were replaced with a Campy Vento wheelset that look awesome and spin on super smooth bearings, as you would expect from Campy.  They aren't my favorite for ride quality but the high polish on the deep aluminum rim gives a striking look to any bike.   And they're perfect on this bike.
The handlebars and stem are my standard for all my steel bikes- 3TTT.  I was hooked on their Forma bars the first time I used them and still like the way they fit.  They are so comfortable in the drops that I spend a good part of my rides in the drops.

The ride quality of this bike is outstanding.  Colnago has always had frame geometry nailed to give a good balance of quickness while still being well behaved.  Many bikes offer super quick handling but tend to be all over the road and difficult to ride no-handed.  This bike makes me feel like I'm just along for the ride.  It easily holds a straight line so cruising down the road feels effortless.  If I feel like hammering through a corner, it inspires confidence to do so.   Every Colnago I've had is like this - it's no wonder why they have always had such a large following in the cycling community!

Thanks for taking a look at one of my favorite bikes today.  If you're in the mood for some tech stuff, check out my other blog indybikemechanic.blogspot.com.  Hope to see you on the road or trail soon!
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