Retro Ti

• E was probably just a tyke in 1993, so he probably doesn't appreciate the ways in which his custom ti roadie references the late, great Bridgestone RB-1. In its day, this bike ruled the USCF racing scene, and has since become a highly prized modern classic. E's frame borrows heavily from the RB-1's lines, geometry, and handling characteristics. The front triangle uses butted tubing for a compliant, smooth ride -- crucial for the long distance training E plans on. The rear triangle uses super beefy stays for solid acceleration and control under hard riding. The wheelbase is a touch longer than contemporary road bikes, important for stability, while sacrificing a shade of cornering ability -- but E won't be doing any crits or super technical riding on this rig.

  What's especially unique about this build is its adherence to a nearly unobtainable price target. When E first came in to discuss the build, I feared that we'd have to resort to (a) machine built wheels, (b) liberal use of Sora, and (c) crummy rubber. Thankfully, none of these things came to pass. Instead, we saved money with smart moves like (a) using barcons instead of STI, (b) opting for an 8 speed drivetrain instead of 10, and (c) buying a full 2008 Tiagra gruppo.

  The barcons made immediate sense because E plans on Iron-distance triathlon training and will likely convert the bike to full aerobar positioning for significant stretches. The barcons can easily be moved to the ends of the aerobars for additional control. They're also less expensive, more precise, and lighter than STI levers. Since he wasn't coming from and STI-equipped bike and therefore accustomed to the action, using this "retro" technology was an obvious choice.

  E will surely upgrade some bits eventually, but in the meanwhile, an 8 speed chain and cassette would save some money without sacrificing form or function. In fact, he might find that 8 is enough, assuming Shimano continues to support the format for years to come. "Upgrading" to 9 or 10 speeds will be painless, as the cranks, mechs, and wheels are already 9/10 compliant.

  The bike tips the scales at a little under 21 pounds, but "feels" significantly lighter. It is strangely apparent that the weight is in the rotational parts: pedals (470g), tires (270g each), wheels (2200g). Lightening these bits down the line will easily drop the build under 19 pounds, which is my personal threshold for featherweight road bikes.

  All that for less than the price of a Trek 2300!