A classic-looking steel frame is a thing of beauty.
The chrome lugs, the cromovelato finish, and
the skinny Columbus tubing will never go out of style.
So, you want a custom bike in your collection
that honors the tradition of Italian framebuilding.
But can you assemble this type of frame
with the latest components
so the bike has a modern performance?
The answer is yes.
And in this video, I’m going to show you how.
I’m Alex, the co-founder of Officina Battaglin.
Let’s dive right in.
Many people think that a classic-looking frame built today
can only fit vintage 6-speed groupsets.
That’s not correct.
Compared to a vintage frame, a classic-looking modern frame
has more space between the dropouts.
In fact, vintage frames pre-dating the 80s
were built for a 5 or 6-speed transmission.
And with a 130mm spacing for the rear hub,
today’s classic frames like this Marosticana
are designed to fit even 12-speed groupsets.
This means that your classic-looking frame
can be equipped with all types of modern groupsets.
Obviously, Campagnolo will be always a perfect match
for a steel frame handmade in Italy.
But you can choose also Shimano and SRAM.
You should choose the groupset for your classic bike project
during the construction of the frame.
In fact, the frame will have to be built with
specific features depending on the groupset.
Let’s say you want to assemble your custom frame with
an 11-speed Campagnolo Record like this Marosticana.
In this case,
you will need two braze-on bosses on the downtube
for the rear and front derailleur cables.
If you want to go with Campagnolo EPS or Shimano Di2,
you will need 3 holes on the frame
for a very specific routing.
And if you want to go with the SRAM Red eTap,
you won’t need any holes or cable guides.
A classic-looking frame will need a 1” stem.
And this means that you will have 2 options:
a traditional 1” quill stem, or a modern stem with an adaptor.
Again, you should choose the type of stem
during the construction of the frame.
In fact, with a traditional 1” quill stem,
the frame builder will have to provide you
with a threaded fork.
With a modern stem, you will need a threadless fork.
Obviously, the type of stem you choose
will influence the choice of the handlebar.
A classic-looking frame is designed to fit
a 27.2mm seat post.
To enhance riding comfort,
my advice is to choose a carbon seat post.
In fact, a carbon seat post is lighter than an aluminum one.
And it will dampen road vibrations much better,
making your bike even more enjoyable.
The wheels you choose
will have a great influence on the ride quality.
Personally, I love the combination of
deep-section carbon wheels with a classic-looking frame.
With deep-section carbon wheels,
you will benefit from a very responsive ride
And they will give the bike
a contemporary look that’s absolutely bad-ass.
A classic-looking frame like this Marosticana
can easily fit tires up to 25mm.
There is a trend in the road bike market for wider tires.
But a steel frame custom-made to your measurements
will provide you with the best possible riding comfort.
And you won’t need 28mm tires to achieve
the most comfortable rides of your life.
For the saddle, the handlebar tape, and the accessories,
you won’t have any restrictions.
You will be able to choose the components you prefer
and upgrade them over time with more advanced versions.
I hope you enjoyed this video!
If you have any questions about this process,
let me know by leaving a comment below.
I will read and answer all of them.
I’ll see you in the next video!
