The Golden Boy 

I like the idea of the large pulleys (although I have one- I haven’t used it- but I did have a Suntour with a 13T pulley AND an outrageously long cage). I also take Grant’s advice with a lot of weight. However, as much of the Rivendell aesthetic that I like- I don’t dig putting low end equipment on a high end bike. It’s one thing if that’s what you’ve got to work with or it fills a specific need. But, to me, the 720 is a special bike- a handmade frame out of Waterloo, WI.

Maybe it’s because I spoil myself, but I want to use the “good stuff.” IMO, on this bike something like the Ultegra 6603 or the DA 7703 or 7803. Shiny. There’s no real discernible functional difference; I’m aware of that- it’s aesthetic, it’s snob appeal (even if it’s just for yourself- it’s part of why you have a 720 instead of a Continental)

Your bike is totally dominant as it is. My opinion is just dorky bike guy opinion- and I expect everyone to build their 720s like mine.

sworley

Perfection bicybike ! I recently built up an '85 720 that came to me with a total mixed bag of parts on it. My objective was stock "plus" and your bike was a beautiful baseline.

I wanted a stock appearance but updated with semi-modern quality fittings. Largely 9 speed Dura-Ace drivetrain (including the long cage DA RD), Mavic Open Pro to DA hub wheelset but keeping some older items that were stock for the bike such as the Deerhead FD and XT brakes. I'm happy with how it turned out! I've robbed the vintage DA cage and strap pedals for duty on my Bianchi Pista for now.

smd4

I think I would have routed that right brake cable around the front of the stem to the left side of the bike to eliminate the tight bends, but other than that, excellent! Load her up and hit the road!