Track bike dilemma

I want to build another track bike, I've got all the bits, Stronglight 2000 chainset and BB, Miche Primato track hubs, a lovely pair of grey FIR Pulsar tubular rims, LOOK pedals, bars, stem etc, do I get an old Roy Thame track frame re-sprayed circa 1986 built from Reynolds 531c, traditional track frame (built by Bill Gray I think, re-spray by Bob Jackson Cycles) or do I buy a Dolan Pre Cursa? I was thinking of using it for track accreditation at Lea Valley, maybe the odd club TT. What do forum members think. Thanks in advance

Check the requirements for track bikes at that velodrome and go from there. Herne Hill is a great deal more forgiving. In terms of steel vs aluminium, it’s comfort over stiffness mostly, if you want a ‘proper’ track bike you should be aiming for a bike that’s as stiff as possible.

Hi, the Thame is Lea Valley Legal, i.e. No braze ones, BB bracket height is fine etc, I've got a Cinelli Vigorelli as well but just fancy another bike (n+1!!!!!!) I'll probably go and ride Reading TL next season (haven't been there for a couple of seasons) just can't decided.

If you’ve already got an Alu bike then build a steel one? A pre cursa would just be a side grade.

Knowing you as I do, I think your traditional mindset will be better catered for by the old frame.

Also, if you have success on the track in 2019 (which I think is definitely on the cards), it will be more impressive if you are using old kit. I think we both believe the actual benefit (in nano seconds) from the newer frame would be so slight as to be imperceptable, but the greater public don't know that.

If you decide to go down that path I have a nice pair of Airlite/Mavic 28's I would be prepared to lend you for the season - they would really rub it in!

The Thame is being sent off early January to Bob Jackson Cycles, my niece has picked the colour, I've got all the equipment. Can't wait to start building it up. Thanks for the loan of the wheels Clubman, I've got a set ready to build up Miche on FIR Pulsar rims.