I’ve been threatening this since joining RetroBike so here goes for my first proper build, including re-spray and parts collection. I delivered the frame and F7 forks to Bob Jackson’s of L**ds yesterday for the royal treatment it deserves, so it’s all systems go and no turning back now. The forks are unlikely to be used although I thought best to get them sprayed and keep them with the frame if ever I come to sell.
There has been some debate about the dating of this frame on another thread. I’m sticking with a June ’96 production for purchase in ’97. I confirm that the frame does have the nickel plate finish beneath the more recent orange re-spray. This was an ebay purchase so I’m not sure of its full history.
http://www.retrobike.co.uk/forum/viewto ... highlight=
The re-spray colour chosen is not from the citrus family, but from another fruit group? I’m hoping that the colour chosen will complement the selected components so fingers crossed. The decal graphic designs have been selected from the ‘93 to ’95 Orange era because I like them (thanks gil_m).
With regards to steering and components I’ll be sticking with the best of British where possible including an RC 45 Pace stem, RC36 Evo 3 forks (freshly serviced - thanks justbackdated), Middleburn RS3’s and X-lite or USE seat post. Pics of the components will be posted soon.
Groupset will be Shimano M737 / M739 mix running V brakes. Wheels will be the dependable Mavic 717xc with Shimano M760 hubs.
Whilst most parts have been sourced, I do need some help finding or suggesting a suitable 1” aheadset or no-threadset in silver. The best I have in store at the moment is a black Cane Creek S2, but want to keep with the British theme. I’ve been trying to source a 1” Hope’ but no luck so any help in finding something suitable would be appreciated. Finally, I want to go with white outer cables so any recommendations and a steer in the right direction would be appreciated.
Some pics of the existing frame to get us started.
There has been some debate about the dating of this frame on another thread. I’m sticking with a June ’96 production for purchase in ’97. I confirm that the frame does have the nickel plate finish beneath the more recent orange re-spray. This was an ebay purchase so I’m not sure of its full history.
http://www.retrobike.co.uk/forum/viewto ... highlight=
The re-spray colour chosen is not from the citrus family, but from another fruit group? I’m hoping that the colour chosen will complement the selected components so fingers crossed. The decal graphic designs have been selected from the ‘93 to ’95 Orange era because I like them (thanks gil_m).
With regards to steering and components I’ll be sticking with the best of British where possible including an RC 45 Pace stem, RC36 Evo 3 forks (freshly serviced - thanks justbackdated), Middleburn RS3’s and X-lite or USE seat post. Pics of the components will be posted soon.
Groupset will be Shimano M737 / M739 mix running V brakes. Wheels will be the dependable Mavic 717xc with Shimano M760 hubs.
Whilst most parts have been sourced, I do need some help finding or suggesting a suitable 1” aheadset or no-threadset in silver. The best I have in store at the moment is a black Cane Creek S2, but want to keep with the British theme. I’ve been trying to source a 1” Hope’ but no luck so any help in finding something suitable would be appreciated. Finally, I want to go with white outer cables so any recommendations and a steer in the right direction would be appreciated.
Some pics of the existing frame to get us started.
The exposure doesn't do the bike justice 
