ratfink76

So two interesting things: there is chrome under the small scratches on the frame/fork - this means high end frame if I recall correctly and also it has Campy dropouts.. also means high end?

The model name on the top tube is gone but from the serial number and looking on Lightweight Classic Vintage bicycles I think it is an early 80's.

Here are the pics as bought:

ratfink76

Here it is after some cleaning, polishing and test fitting a few pieces from the shop (including a Shimano 600 headset install):

satbuilder 

Looks like an Ultima model. @ScottRyder could tell you for sure, I think.

unworthy1

Nice score and it's in very good condition, too! Long point Bocama pro lugs and all 531, yes I think it's an Ultima so nearly top-of-range and with the shorty campy DOs , TT cable guides and one set of WB bosses plus the nutted brakes it's probably right around 1981...here's a '81 catalog page scan courtesy of Mark Bulgier's site
https://bulgier.com/pics/bike/Catalog...uperleicht.bmp

ratfink76

It takes recessed brakes! Also, I was just looking in the daylight and the fork and rear triangle are the sections with chrome under the paint, the main triangle and the headtube have a couple of nics with no chrome under them... I'm loving this frame!

T-Mar

Reynolds modernized their decals in 1984, so it should be prior to that yet it doesn't have the short Campagnolo dropouts with Portacatena holes indicative of the very late 1970s and very early 1980s model. This should place it circa 1983.

During this period A-D had a couple of top end models that used Reynolds 531SL which this is not, based on the decal. Below that were about three models that used Reynolds 531 double butted as indicated by the decal on your bicycle. Still, this would be considered a high bicycle in it's day, even though it is not top of the line.

ratfink76

Always elevates the conversation when you chime in T-Mar!

ratfink76

I'm slowing building up a Campy Athena 8 speed grouppo which I think is now earmarked for this frame... but in order to get it on the road and get some miles on it it will get a complete Shimano RSX grouppo down to the hubs to start.

3speedslow

You found a good one! Love those AD bikes.

USAZorro

Built on the Space Station?

ScottRyder 

The Ultima Superleicht would have had chrome head tube lugs .. so I'm guessing this is "just" a Superleicht. I have the exact frame that came with a Campy headset and bottom bracket, I've always considered it a Superleicht. And not to be confused with the SL. Identifying A-D models can be like hitting a moving target ... I haven't posted this link in quite awhile but it's got some great history, not all good.

My Austro-Daimler "Vent Noir II" Bicycle And Brief History of Steyr Daimler Puch

Cheers,

Scott

ratfink76

When I do a Google search and click images I see a few that have the chrome chain protection area on the drive side stay, but not many. The seatpost is a 27.2mm and fork crown is 26.4mm.

I think from all the above input and the serial number that I am going with 1983 for the moment...

Thanks!

rat fink

Beautiful. I love A-Ds.

unworthy1

Ah! I saw that pattern in the chrome from the serrated washer and just ASSUMED it was from a washer on the BACK, but it's on the front of the crown...I should never assume...

(hey, do you 2 rat finks know each other?)

ratfink76

Nope.. we must both be car guys in our other lives! LOL

Cars are too expensive so I'll keep with my bikes for now...

spudly

Beautiful frame! Don't know what kind of saddle you're going to use, but I think a Selle Italia Special Turbo - with the gold and red lettering/plates - would match well and probably be chronologically correct.

Chombi

For me most ADs tend look best with a Brooks Pro saddles on it, especially with the brand's very ecclectic/old world looking graphics.

carbomb

A frame like this is more motivation for me to hold out, not scoop up a good deal and wait for a great one. This frame is stunning.

ratfink76

I'm toying with using a Selle Royal in brown suede. I wrote Selle Royal years age asking for help identifying the model and they helped, then asked if I wanted to judge their prototype "retro" saddle for the fixie crowd and they shipped it to me from Italy. I rode it for 3 months and sent them my thoughts and they said thanks and to keep the saddle!! It has a sticker underneath that says 'prototype'

I have a burgundy Velo Orange saddle with matching bar tape that VO had discounted in their specials section... but I am not sure how the burgundy will look on this red..

Thank you!!

exmechanic89

That frame set is gorgeous, should make a sweet riding bike alright.

crank_addict

Good for him and seems to have passion and nostalgia behind the brand. Who knows whatever this company goals are, but could see some offering of a custom steel line.

Funny thoughts too on the Steyr, Puch, A-D and all the others in that umbrella. As Sears continues to shrink, maybe some brave soul will bring back the Free Spirit.

ratfink76

The build continues...





I realized I spelled Austro wrong in the title but can't figure out how to edit that... oh well...

Fahrenheit531 

A find, indeed!

The 531 decal mashup totally reminds me of an old punk rock album cover and must not be replaced, btw.

Sir_Name 

Finding that must have made the weekend - great find, enjoy.

I was trying to think of what that reminded me of.....agreed it's a keepah!

Wildwood 

Very nice.
I would wager this becomes a favored rider.
Welcome to the AD Club.