Re: 1995 Marin Team Titanium (started as a '99 Team Ti frame)
A rebuild had been on the cards for a while. I was unsure what direction to take the build in, but knew I wanted some changes. Then, it occurred to me to add colour; Red, to be precise.
First on the list was to replace the M900 with M950, as that is period correct. I always wanted some of the early 8 speed M950, so the search was on for some shifters, as I had everything else already. The shifters are a funny design as they seem to have backwards in their serviceability v's M900, and Shimano must have realised, as they sorted it out for the 9 speed version 18 months later.
A shorter Titanium axle was needed for my Hope BB (which I luckily had in my spare too), so that it would compliment my planned cranks - Middleburn RS3's. They're not rare cranks, but when you're looking for a non faded Red spider, and clean arms, then the order becomes complicated!
The headset was swapped for another logoless King one, but this time it was Red.
The Control Tech seatpost found a new home and was replaced with a Titanium one.
Last on the list were the wheels, and I was pretty specific about what I wanted here too. These took a bit of searching as I wanted a Pace front with Red caps, a Red Hope TiGlide rear, and Ceramic X517's in Black (not the more common Grey). I used the super light DT Revolution spokes and Red alloy Araya nipples to build them. These are actually the first wheels I've built using proper tools and a jig, rather than the old frames/forks and yogurt pot plastic taped on as guides! Maxxis Flyweight tubes and Titanium skewers finish them off. The tyres aren't really my number one choice, I simply had them spare in the cave. I don't mind them, but can't think of what I really want.
Whilst weight wasn't a goal as such, I'm always conscious about what components I choose. I weighed the bike as it is there, and it comes in at a fairly respectable 22.3lb. I find that bikes become a bit too light and skittish when you go below 22lb, so I'm happy being just over.
I did actually exercise quite a bit of restraint with the amount of Red I added in to the build. I reckon I took as much away as I've added, as I wanted to keep a 'balance'.
Anyway, that's my update - hope you enjoy the pictures...