The never ending quest for my perfect bike

[fr188]

I’ve changed a few things on my Carlton Pro, since the last time in my quest to have as near to perfect a bike for me,
I’ve changed to ultegra, from 30 year old D/A 7402, there’s a better range of gearing to be had for me as I’m getting on now, bar end shifters are gone and moved to my winter bike, though I love the shifters and may reinstate them back in the future, also I got a super deal with D/A 7900 hubs matched with Hplus son Tb14 rims,& I’m going to try out carbon aero handlebars, to see if I can get even more comfortable, which will be hard as it’s a lovely handling bike as it is already, some purists probably won’t like what I have done, but to me comfort & ride ability is my goal.

 

[Cycleops]

Just don't tell @Spokesmann

 

[biggs682]

@fr188 looks good , enjoy

 

[Joffey]

I can't help but think that looks odd with the mix of modern and classic components - BUT each to their own, you may not like any of my bikes! As long as you love it and enjoy riding it

 

[BSOh]

I think it looks lovely. Enjoy!

 

[Randomnerd]

Personally, I think you've disposed of some of its original good looks by getting more comfortable. Those bars look too fat to me, and make the bike appear top-heavy. Comfort is over-rated anyhow: surely cycling is a slightly masochistic pursuit?

 

[Cycleops]

I think it's a great combination of old and new, just because it doesn't look what some think a vintage bike should look like doesn't mean it can't work.
Clearly the OP is happy with it and it gives him pleasure and that's all that matters.

 

[fr188]

I do agree that the bike looks much better with vintage parts,but I’ve done that, there is better choices switching over to modern gear,( cheaper& easier to sorce)
I’ve been down the road with carbon bikes, but I’ve sold them off, as I just don’t find them very pleasing,

 

[Cycleops]

If Carlton were still making bikes today it may be similar to this. In fact if you go on the Condor site you'll see they offer something very similar, a modern steel frame with up to date components, albeit brazed in Italy. The OP has achieved the same but at quite a price saving.

 

[fr188]

Yes the Pro was top of the line modern frame, ment to be used with modern gear at the time, so am just carrying on,
And for a fraction of the price