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@Andrew
I found when perusing Evans’ website that the bikes I liked were all steel – skinny frames just look nice dontcha think? So, I thought I could buy an old bike and just upgrade the bits I needed to as I went along and make myself a nice bike. Unfortunately I have taken some mis-steps along the way. Mainly not really being clear about what I am trying to do, and then buying stuff I don’t need, and paying too much for it. Nothing that can’t be solved by sticking what I don’t want on here and/or eBay I am sure, but embarrassing nonetheless.
Anyway, bought an Ammaco Monte Carlo. I thought it would do nicely, 700 wheels, and 4130 aircraft grade cro moly which sounded cool. It did ride nice too. Tight with no rattles. £100.
Got home, checked it over, googled this and that and it all looked different.
More…
http://s1302.beta.photobucket.com/user/andrewhorton/library/Ammaco%20then
Scratchy BB, completely worn freewheel and chain, and as broth pointed out, gappy – not a 700-specific frame. On top of that I see that 4130 ain’t nothing special, and the forks are not even that – high tensile steel.
The right thing to do from here would be get a new BB, and put a new freewheel and chain on – and keep the Suntour Hero mechs. I have the chops to sharpen it all up and badda bing, working bike for £40 more - £140 in all. Maybe a new seat too and I am done.
I didn’t do that though. I decided I wanted a new-style rear hub setup Got a new wheelset, cassette and chain. Now I am on a roll, and got new front and rear mechs and crankset. Suddenly I am in for £130 extra (got a freecycled rear mech – cheers Vince), so the bike has cost me £230, but is still a bit rubbish – imho.
More…
http://s1302.beta.photobucket.com/user/andrewhorton/library/Ammaco%20now