Wow. This bike just moves. A full 2 mph faster average than the Merckx carbon on several different rides. I don’t know exactly what it is that makes it faster, but there’s no doubt about it.
I’ve gone through the entire bike, cleaning, re-greasing, and adjusting it as well as I’m able. I just rode it on a 62 mile ride in Paducah, Kentucky and there were no problems – aside from needing a better engine, but that’s a topic for a different discussion.
Fitwise, the stem is shorter than I would normally use, but I won’t change it out because I don’t want to lose the Pinarello panto’d on the stem. Maybe not the best choice but I’ll adapt.
The 35 year old Campagnolo Gran Sport group rides and shifts very well. The brakes are noisy, which isn’t a big surprise with old pads. The braking isn’t horrible, but I’ve ordered some new pads that should improve braking and stop the squealing.
Later this year, I’m planning to strip the parts from the frame and fork, and have them painted blue, Pinarello blue to be specific. The bike has already been partially repainted, so there’s no concern with destroying original paint. I’ll replace the decals too, and the bike will look like new.
But it will continue to rack up the miles. It’s too much fun to ride to let it waste away as a display bike. Bikes are made to be ridden first, and admired as examples of fine craftsmanship second. At least that’s my take on it.