SEVEN DAY CYCLIST
CYCLING, BUT NOT USUALLY RACING

The Vision

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I had wanted a lightweight road frameset with tight clearances but scope for full length mudguards, should I wish to run it as a winter trainer a few years down the line. After all, I was going to get my A levels, go to university, change the world, my name in lights, a garage cum workshop the size of ex-soviet Central Asia, and a Tomassini on my wall (Rosso red and chrome, naturally).

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Being 17, I was on a tight budget, so an element of compromise was inevitable. A single bottle boss, rather than two, no chain or pump pips and a single colour enamel finish. I also wanted it dressed in European components. The latter were harvested slowly, while the frameset was on order- bought, begged, and traded.

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Frameset

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531C (Competition) was a thinner wall version of the iconic tubeset, which saved a few grams and great for lighter riders (I was around 9st 11 back then). Given the thin gauge, repair and modification requires caution and silver solder. I was also surprised to learn that electroplating was permitted and that seat tubes were often 27.2 (Mine was 27.0 and experienced frame builders have politely declined to ream to 27.2) Thinner tubing also welcomes internal preserve to prevent moisture eating it from the inside out.

 

I was sat on jigs, measured, and confirmed the frame’s intended purpose. I paid a deposit and told turnaround time would be around 4-6 weeks. Colour was probably the trickiest decision There were a wealth of options. Poppy Red and British Racing Green made the shortlist. I wanted a classic, simple enamel that was attractive but hardwearing and easily touched up. 

The latter won.  Turnaround was longer than expected, due to the enameler and builder being away on holiday at mutually incompatible points. I also had the headset and bottom bracket installed before taking delivery, which is good practice on a new frameset. 

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Something Borrowed 

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It took a few weeks for components to emerge from my cobble 'n’ bodge fitted wardrobes but finally the day came. Now this compromise business meant some interesting deviations from my European script. The first build had a Primax needle roller bearing headset, FAG sealed bearing bottom bracket, Stronglight 80 52/42 crankset, NOS (1972) Campagnolo Gran Sport friction gear levers commanding Shimano 600 derailleurs. Eh??? 

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Well, I had to use what I had, and these Shimano 600 came from a friend’s Carlton Kermesse. He also leant me a set of his wheels, to get on the road for a few weeks, while I waited for a Mavic MA2/Athena wheelset to arrive. Stopping was courtesy of a Campagnolo Athena brake set, contact points comprised of Cinelli bars & stem, a Selcoff seat post and a Rolls saddle. Initially I went for Campagnolo copy Gipiemme pedals, resin clips and leather straps. I rode it every day that summer, revelling in the responsive, exciting ride and handling.