Colnago Master 1986

[beepbeep]

I recently acquired this Colnago Master frameset with wonderful patina (or terrible paint, depending on your point of view). Allegedly once owned by the Del Tongo team, which makes the patina richer still in my eyes.

With what I had on hand I had two options for the build – period correct with Campagnolo Triomphe or (semi) modern with Ultegra 6500. Because I want to use this bike in anger I opted for the Ultegra, which I guess is plain 'wrong'. The aesthetics of old juxtaposed with new was also partly responsible for the choice. Purists look away now.
However at some point I have the feeling I'll try out a period correct build too.

Debating whether to get some replacement decals, but for the time being I'll leave it as it is, you can still read 'Colnago' in the faded paint. I'll probably try out a more traditional stem and seatpost too. I don't think it will ever be finished, so to speak, more of an ongoing project that I can change at will.

As for the ride, it seems to want to go fast, almost urging me to pedal harder. The handling is agile and responsive. I didn't really notice the extra weight (compared with my regular carbon frame), in some ways it felt like it helped the momentum, but I did feel more flex at the front end. In short, I can't wait to get out on it!

 

[NeilM]

Re:

"Plain wrong", that's right up my street.

It looks superb.

 

[colnagolover]

Re:

Sorry - I tend to think "sacrilege"

 

[beepbeep]

Re:

Thanks Neil, I think we have the same taste

@colnagolover I understand your point, but I think it'll get ridden more built like this.

 

[daj]

I like this too , I had a master that was very tatty and actually enjoyed kitting it with what ever and just riding it ...bless she even had mudguards fitted and did a winter club riding.

I miss her :0(

 

[colnagolover]

Re: Re:

Thanks Neil, I think we have the same taste

@colnagolover I understand your point, but I think it'll get ridden more built like this.

Point taken, beepbeep - but this gets ridden about 4500 kms each year too bwhich keeps me happy (and fairly tired, at times)

Cheers

 

[beepbeep]

Re:

Now you're tempting me to strip it and start over using the Triomphe!
Lovely bike!

 

[colnagolover]

Re:

Thanks.

Unfortunately(?) not a Master but so far I've had nigh on 28 years of wonderful cycling on it: apart from a single speed winter hack, it's the only bike I own and (the missus apart?) my dearest possession.

 

[beepbeep]

Re:

Wow, you must have some amazing memories, I understand your attachment to your bike.

I'm fairly new to road bikes (from mtbs), so I've been spoilt with modern ergo bars, clip-in pedals, indexed shifters and saddles with holes in the middle. I've had limited experience on a seventies 10-speed and did enjoy the simplicity. In a way it felt like cycling as it should be - that's what I see when I look at your bike.

 

[ksvb5368]

Re:

I've some some terribly paint jobs on Colnago's where someone has tried to match the original. Keep it the way it is!