New Build… Heavy Controltech Content

ringo

Retrobike Rider
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Thought I’d share this as it’s a while since I’ve done a proper build…

I picked up a Controltech Mountain Bike (serial: 066186) off Marketplace for a bit of a song a fortnight ago.

The guy had bought the frame sometime in the 90’s and built a rather eclectic build (see the built pics below). Interestingly he never rode it much… original Cateye wireless computer states just over 10 miles. Must have been kept in a warm environment as not even the bolt heads show signs of corrosion.

I’ve stripped it back to the frame and started polishing - it’s a good job I did as the bb was really tight and there really wasn’t much evidence of grease being used during the build - unless it had all dried out in aforementioned warm environment!

Frame weighs exactly three pounds and there is some lovely work on it. The bridge down to the rear wishbone is a very complex shape.

Anyone any idea of build year - I’m guessing 93/94… Also any information on these frames would be welcome as there isn’t much out there.

Spec as arrived

Good:

Wheelset: XC Pro hubs on Mavic 217’s
Crank: Sugino
Brakes: Controltech V’s
Bar & Stem: Controltech
RD: Suntour XC Pro
Skewers and bar ends: Controltech.

Not so good:

Gripshift
Brake levers: Red BMX jobbies
Seatpost
Saddle
RST forks minty but must go…
FD: STX but doesn’t really fit with build.

In a perfect world, I’d rebuild it simple with all black components for the understated look. That would take time and money!

I think a better approach might be a Star and Stripes tribute kind of thing, keep most of the red and blue (levers apart) and stick a nice Flite on it and black CT post…

Anyway, enough of my yacking - here’s the pics!
 

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Funnily enough I thought they’d look great!

We had a set kicking about in a shop I used to work at. I thought they were great looking forks. I know a little about Mert Lawwill as a motorcycle racer, so appreciate the forks &n design a little more than the average cyclist.
 
Can you share the frame number please? I haven't got anything Controltech branded on my list. It's almost visible in a couple of your photos!
 
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