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I've decided to base my functional build around a bob Jackson vigorelli track, which after much research seems to over the best VFM to hit my brief.
@edscoble the rest of the setup on the TF you used for your Casablanca trip looks like a good spec for what I want achieve. Have you got any feedback/tips on that setup?
Hobbers-
Honestly it was perfect, only for the specific trip as it didn't rain until the last 3 days.
Wheels are tough Velo Orange Grand Cru track hubs (similar to the cheaper System EX/Ambroiso etc. but with hollow axles for additional strength), no point in spending more than that, and they last for eons, the rims are Mavic A319, they're not light, but neither they are heavy, it only took me 10 minutes to true them nicely due to how stiff they have compare to says, the Mavic Open Pro.
Front is a cheapo Shimano dynamo, so much drag, but charged everything, truthfully I hardly notice, as the wind, climb, descent etc. are much more noticable.
Both wheels never gone out of true.
Crankset are again Velo Orange TA copies, but you don't need to go for that as I only purchase the cranks on it's own to use my TA chainring on, and they look awesome, a basic Lasco crankset is ample for this purpose, bottom bracket is best served by the Shimano UN55, cheap, reliable and last for a reasonable amount of time, if you want a longer lasting one, SKF make the very best.
@mdcc_tester approved Wipperman 1Z1 does not rush at all, highly recommended, easy to take apart and put back together again with the simple quick link.
Brakes, the Shimano BR650 will served you well, it's plenty powerful and ample clearance for mudguard and big tyres and enough drop for the Vigorelli frame.
Everything else is just personal, saddle, handlebar etc. are personal choice.
edscoble
@Hobbers
Pomp would be the most functional (and cheap). But if you want something a bit nicer and more traditional maybe look for a secondhand steamroller + braze ons and a respray. If they still made them, one of those TFG frames like ed used for his fixed tour would be good.
If you want new I'd have a look at Pearson as they have some very nice frames. Don't be put off the graphics until you've seen them in the flesh.
Also if you're happy without track dropouts then Condor do a very sensible frame with all the braze ons.
This thread might also be useful
http://www.lfgss.com/conversations/239243/?offset=25#comment11751723