The Colnago build begins....
So, all ya'll who have expressed interest, much appreciated advice, words of support and encouragement, and general support in an overwhelming prosess.....
I decided early on to go Campy. I tend to be a bit of a purist, and could not pull my Shimano Ultegra off the Ruby and stick it on the Colnago. And, since I have not built out a bike from the frame up, I sought the advice of the LBS, and relied upon ya'll, research, my SO (who only offers his opinion when asked, out of respect for it being, really MY project) who rides only Campy, and the internet to make some of the bigger decisions. My LBS, which has several locations, services the PD bikes, so I have a pretty good working relationship with them, appreciate the effort they put into my personal bikes, and think that is important. SO....
Today I ordered a complete Chorus groupset for it. My credit card groaned. I toyed with putting part Centaur stuff on it, but what the heck, right? I probably could have found it a little cheaper online, but they will put it on for me for $40. Can't beat that with a stick.
I also decided to buy a pretty basic (the Scirocco) Campy wheelset until I decide to upgrade. I don't need a very aero wheelset, because I am easily blown around anyhow. I'll ride it and if I don't like them swap them out for something different. LBS guy told me that Campy wheelsets are all very reliable, good, solid wheelsets.
The big dilemma came with the crankset. I have always ridden a compact double, except for a brief tryst with a triple, but the guys made fun of me and I really didn't love it anyhow, so I quickly abandoned THAT idea. The LBS guy thought that I am an aggressive and strong enough rider to enjoy a standard crankset (39/53) with a 12/27 cassette (I insisted on some sort of climbing gear). I am a little nervous about it, but even SO chirped up from his vow of silence and told me I would be fine with it, so ok then.
So I am ordering a Cinelli stem (might as well stay in my ethnic group) and have a set of Look pedals...at some point I have to stay away from being too Matchy Matchy....it came with the Thompson seatpost (much admired by LBS guy) and Chris King Headset. Stick my Arundel bar tape and expensive but worth it Arundel carbon cages on there and it will be done. Hopefully in 10 days. I will post pics!
The funny thing about it is that it has a unique paint job...grey with sort of lemony yellow accents. The pattern painted on it is a little odd....somehow I decided they look like toes and now just see toes every time I look at it. I don't mind toes on my bike, but it is a little weird.
So fingers crossed that the build goes smoothly. Once I get the thing together, I am going to give myself a birthday present (like I haven't already with this whole thing) and get a professional fit. My LBS does it, but I don't think it is really their thing. I would like the whole digital imaging thing that some places offer. Anyone have any reccomendations in Texas (preferably someplace with some nice riding nearby) let me know! Will (and want) to travel....
