+1
I'm also a fan of RoS's builds; like he reads my mind, then does it better.
A great frame is a great frame. Better components do not dilute that.
A great frame in decades-old kit is even better in modern stuff. Almost always.
Wheels, then crankset, then drivetrain. They get you pretty far.
Toss in modern amenities like an Innicycle headset/stem, carbon bars/stem/seat post and modern saddles?
Hoo boy. Hoo boy.
Almost always. I've had a couple that seemed to pout about it and not want to play
.
Kids, you don't have to imagine what it's like,
you can do it and see for yourself.
Find out what
rccardr and
Chrome Molly and others know.
I urge folks to at least try and build one, just one, and see how it goes.
We're getting to where decent used 11sp stuff is reasonably priced, 10-sp is cheap cheap.
My latest cheapo shopping list to "do it up right:"
Innicycle headset/stem adapter.
Chinese carbon bars, stem, saddle, seat post.
Used modern group with external BB and light wheels.
That being said, one should
not expect a high-end classic steel frame with identical kit to out-perform a modern carbon.
There are still frame differences purely due to weight and geometry that may not always meet your expectations.
The differences are acceptable for me. Actually, in some cases, more fun.
I rode 80 miles yesterday with 4600' of climbing on a 1996 frame with Ultegra 6800.
50/34 front and 11-28 rear had me doubting my ability.
53/39 and 12-24 could have had me weeping in futility.
Adrenaline overcame it on the first half of most climbs, reality kicked me to the curb the 2nd half.
But, it was bearable, and just the idea that I was on an "old bike" made it more fun.
I would like to try a 1x11 on a C&V frame, but I doubt there'll be a "next one."
Doesn't mean I can't swap sheet around and give it a shot.