Univega Alpina 502

rbike · May 30, 2013

I bought a second hand Univega Alpina 502. It is in a pretty good shape with full Shimano STX. It is quite light for an old CR-MO bike - around 11kg (24,5 lb).
I am gooing through some repairs this year - changed some cones, lubed bearings,...however, I never owned a bike this light, and since is quite old, I was wandering what should I check out - regarding cracks. I checked for cracks on fork, where I couldn't find any and I bought and changed a new alu handlebar just in case.
Any recommendation regarding old cr-mo bikes regarding frame cracks? The tubes seem quite thin and also tubewalls are thin.
Just a shortcut to discussion would be fine.

Pyro Tim · May 30, 2013

don't worry about it, it's steel. I've got lighter bikes from back then. I use them regularly, never worried about a crack. Old aluminium isn't quite as robust, and needs checking

rbike · May 30, 2013

OK, I was just wandering. Anyone knows anything about its frame? It is written Racelite, 4130-DB, chromoly, double butted, frame tubes and chain stays. Made in Taiwan. Fork is Racelite, 4130-DB. I guess it was an entry level bike back then...can not find a lot about this bike on the net. I guess it was not quite popular...

hamster · May 31, 2013

A classy frame, Univegas are definitely under-appreciated in the UK. I bought a later Alpina frame and forks for peanuts - it rides beautifully.

drystonepaul · May 31, 2013

I agree that Univegas are under-rated and hence overlooked. I have a 1993 Univega Alpina Comp which has 4130 tubing. It's not the lightest of steel frames out there but it's not bad at all. I love how it rides too.

In terms of durability, I don't think you need to worry too much about cracking. As with any old steel frame, it'll be rust that you'll need to look out for.

Here's a link to mine:--> viewtopic.php?t=155300

rbike · May 31, 2013

I was surprised with the price of this second hand bike. It looks something like this:
I am very happy with it. Especialy I like the climbs. I put an extra comfort saddle which is a bit heavy, but I think the weight is in the right place

Have to replace brake pads on it. I saw Ritcheys red and also blue for canti brakes in the store the other day. I think, I will go with the red ones, since they have better reviews...

Univega Alpina 502

rbike

Dirt Disciple

Pyro Tim

rbike

Dirt Disciple

hamster

Retro Wizard

drystonepaul

rbike

Dirt Disciple

Attachments

Similar threads

Latest posts