I realise there was an earlier - frankly mind-blowing - example (Ian's) of one of these on here before. In fact that bike was the inspiration for me to find one.
This one was in a bad way when I acquired it - very chipped, rusty and badly touched in (with a stick as far as I could see). Many of the parts were similarly in a bad state and the saddle was in a total mess. However it was just about complete - which was the attraction to me since some Shimano AX parts like the bars and end caps etc are expensive/hard to get hold of. The frame was also perfectly straight and had no dents.
The final result has surprised me a bit! It looks better and rides better than I expected if I am honest and has a taught, light and silent ride quality which really appeals - can't stop riding it
Set up well the AX gears are light and precise. The infamous brakes are as good as most late 70's stuff - but no better. (They were appalling on worn blocks mind you...)
Its not a 10/10 bike in terms of finish but I'm really pleased with it overall and it is definitely a proper 'keeper'.
I wouldn't advise Shimano AX for most people though - parts and set up are tricky and fussy compared to every other groupset I have fiddled with - makes you learn a whole load of new tricks - but that was part of the fun this time ;-)
Hope you approve of the bike!
This one was in a bad way when I acquired it - very chipped, rusty and badly touched in (with a stick as far as I could see). Many of the parts were similarly in a bad state and the saddle was in a total mess. However it was just about complete - which was the attraction to me since some Shimano AX parts like the bars and end caps etc are expensive/hard to get hold of. The frame was also perfectly straight and had no dents.
The final result has surprised me a bit! It looks better and rides better than I expected if I am honest and has a taught, light and silent ride quality which really appeals - can't stop riding it
Set up well the AX gears are light and precise. The infamous brakes are as good as most late 70's stuff - but no better. (They were appalling on worn blocks mind you...)Its not a 10/10 bike in terms of finish but I'm really pleased with it overall and it is definitely a proper 'keeper'.
I wouldn't advise Shimano AX for most people though - parts and set up are tricky and fussy compared to every other groupset I have fiddled with - makes you learn a whole load of new tricks - but that was part of the fun this time ;-)
Hope you approve of the bike!
