I have cannibalised the Brooks Saddle and the SPDs, but I might let you have the new saddle and pedals offa my replacement bike... if I like the cut of your jib!
I've got a Pioneer giving me the baleful eye of a spurned lover ATM. After 20 years of largely faithful service, its place has been usurped by a Saracen (bought on the cycle to work scheme). I felt pangs of remorse as I cannibalised the caggage off it. In fact it looked pretty sexy stripped down to its essentials, so much so, I was obliged to take the old gal on a final tour de farm (for old times sake).
I had it made for me after reading a glowing review in a Mountainbike mag back in '88 (I bet that article did their sales a bit of good). In fact, I remember having to wait months for them to finish it! I paid £750 for it (but I had the insurance money from a stolen Muddy Fox burning a hole in my pocket).
After reading all your fond memories I am feeling even more guilty. In fact, it would be nice to get 'er running sweet again... but I know me, it would be one of those rainy day projects that would never get done.
So, if any of youse would be interested in giving a loving home to a 19" Pioneer in yellow and purple then that would assuage my guilt somewhat.
The frame is part Columbus, part Reynolds 531, Mavic rims, rear hub brake, Deore running gear. Had the front wheel rebuilt 15 years ago and a new 7 speed cassette 10 years ago. The middle biopace ring is worn to nubs and slips like billy-o and the paint is banged up some, but she still has a ragged beauty.
Paul Tomlin 2
