which frame to buy

uptheswa

Hi

my old 531c bike is knackered beyond repair and i am looking to replace it with another steel steed

i have the oppertunity to get a 531c built to spec and delivery is quite quick, only 3 to 4 weeks

but for a few $$$ extra i can get a new stock frame m size in reynolds 753 with carbon forks from a very reputible frame builder

any ideas on the 753, i have never rode one, how does it compare with 531c

is it true that 753 is more prone to rust ?

i like the idea of 753 but then i know exactly what i will be getting with the 531c, so just now i am undecided but need to make a decision within a couple of days

many thanks

Peter@vecchios

In the hands of a good frame builder, what you get is a frame that's a wee bit lighter with 753 but still the same nice ride. Never heard that 753 was 'prone to rust'. 531 is the standard by which other steel tube makers were compared, way back when. BUT 531 still a great tubeset and will make for a great frame BUT you say your original is 'knackered beyond repair', it is broken?

uptheswa

Hi Peter

My old frame has corroded from the inside on the downtube at the bottom bracket, there is a hole now you can put your finger in. I suppose the tube could be replaced, but mabye the bottom bracket shell and the chanstays could also be corroding. I used the bike for maybe 18 years as a summer and winter bike so I got good return from it !

I have another option now, there is a new Simoncini frame my size in stock in Columbus SLX, its not painted yet so I can choose my own colour. I could probably have it delivered fully built in about 2 weeks.

I could have the 531c frame built and delivered in 3 to 4 weeks.

Or I could have the 753 built and delivered within 1 week, but it is already painted and is white, not really a colour I would have picked.

Anyway, that are the 3 immediate choices I have and I would need to decide soon.

The costs are

Simoncini with Veloce group completly built except for pedals £750

Custom built 531c with Veloce competely built for £750

753 frame £400, I have not got a price for a complete build yet.

I have been able to negioate a good deal I think on the Simoncini and the custom 531c so either would be OK, and a 753 frame and carbon forks for £400 also looks a good deal, i suppose it comes down to a personal choice now but anyone with opinion or experience of either of the tubings or on Simoncini could let me know what they think.

Thanks

Peter@vecchios

I owned a Simoncini in the late 80s, a SLX and I was never impressed by the ride. VERY subjective, I know. But it just never seemed very 'bright' and lively to me. YMMV