I fell in love with this 1985(ish) Merckx eight years ago and have been riding it ever since, even as a daily commuter for about a half year stint in Berlin. I haven’t changed much throughout the years, I swapped the original Dura Ace seat post for the current one cause it was too short for me, put different tires on (rode 28mm for a while, currently on 25mm), different saddles, bar tapes, bottle cages and a Crane bell but that’s about it. The rest is as I bought it and I don’t use it as a commuter anymore but do still ride it quite often.
The next step I want to take is to return it back to a more period correct state and I need some advice on what parts to look for. New parts, new old parts, what fits the bike and what did they ride originally?
My goal is to take it on a century ride this summer, hopefully in a close to era correct state and garb. And keep riding it on occasion till the end of my days.
Here’s the list of what I need input on thus far;
Saddle
Currently: San Marco Rolls from my parts bin
When purchased: White perforated leather Selle Italia saddle (can’t find it anymore, unfortunately)
Issue (advice needed): I don’t think this model belonged on a bike like this back the day.
Rims
Currently: Silver anodised Mavic rims
Issue (advice needed): The rims are starting to tear/crack near some of the spokes (you can see it in the picture if you look closely). I want to get some new rims and keep the original Dura Ace that are currently on there. As I do ride it quite often I’m not sure if fitting old rims on the bike is a good idea hence why I need some advice on this.
Quick releases
Currently: Anti theft security skewers
When purchased: Shimano quick releases
Issue (advice needed): From what I can find online the Shimano quick releases that came with the bike aren’t original (a few years newer than 85, they don’t have the rings on the non release side) they’re also a bit rusty and in not-so-great condition.
Seat post
Currently: No brand seat post
When purchased: 1985 Dura Ace seat post
Issue (advice needed): I still have the original, but it’s unfortunately too short for me. The current seat post works but I’d prefer one with less set back.
Pedals
Currently/ when purchased: MKS Sylvan Road
Issue (advice needed): They’re a little annoying as you can only pedal comfortably on one side.
Bottle cage
Currently: Blackburn Chicane Stainless Steel Bottle Cage
When purchased: Some flimsy old white bottle cage that was about fall apart.
Issue: I like this bottle cage but the color doesn’t quite match the crome look of the other parts.
Any advice, suggestions or questions are welcome!
by brachkov