Kaaaaaaandries' pursuit for the ultimate vintage roadie!

I've ridden the same 1980's Columbus SL frame with:
(a) original form: 6-speed block, down tube shifters, contemporary/mainly Campag parts, Mavic rims, classic Cinelli drops, etc. and
(b) modern group (SRAM Force), new but low profile wheels, (Nitto) compact bars/quill stem.
It's a completely different bike and a much, MUCH more enjoyable riding experience, but still maintains classic looks. (Depending on how narrowly you define "classic" of course.)

Obviously so much comes down to personal preference, but the biggest improvements for me, in order, would be:

• convenience of bar shifting, over a wide range and smaller increments
  
• braking performance
  
• comfort of compact bars/shifter set up
  
  

So my vote definitely goes for a modern component build with sympathetic aesthetics. :)

1 Attachment