gminator

This post is quite old but I'm wondering if this group is still operational... I might be moving to Edgmead soon coming from the Southern Suburbs which seems to have a ton of great cycling routes by comparison.

Also if the bike turns out be smaller than expected (which is very likely), being 1.68m tall will I be fine with 48/51/52ish frame?

Ok cool thanks for all the help. But just to be super clear the distance accross the top tube (from headset to the seat post) parrallel to the ground (reach) should be 52cm. I've got my hands on spirit level so Im going to go make some mesurements tonight hopefully buy the bike if all goes well. I took the bike for a ride and it felt ok, but not sure what I should be looking for. I've only ever ridden moutnain bikes so the feel of road bike is completely new to me.

Ok cool thanks, In need a 52 cm. So do I messure the length of the top tube parrallel to the ground, sort of like reach ( between the headset and the seat post). Or do I just go messure the actual tube along with its slant if that makes any sense at all?

Im looking at buying a Specialzied Roubaix, the seller is unsure about the size. Whats the best way to acturatly determine the size, I didnt see any markings on the bike that shows size?

Thats seems like a fair price. The bike has alot of changes on it the front derailleur doesnt appear to have a name and it has suntour hubs, there is no mention of colombus tubing anyhwere . I presume that period correct parts are going to be hard to come by?

Finally got a response from Battaglin. This is what they said: What would a bike like this be worth in its current state. This is whats currently wrong with it: Wheel missing are missing spoke New rim tape needed New tires needed Both rims are buckled Brake levers/shifters are on its way out, if not there already Chain rings are slipping Wheels Hubs don't sound at all healthy New saddle needed Paint touch ups New Pedals needed Brakes and pads are finished The new developments might require me to compensate the original owner, would like to make him a fair offer.

I've emailed battaglin, also took it to Cycle Works in woodstock to see what they could make of it. They've previously refurbished battaglin bike, luckily its not going to cost a kidney to revive it, so Im definately going to do it. FYI the underside of the bottom bracket reads S 525, I couldnt find anything on the dropouts but it appears to have Campagnolo chang rings and crank arms.

The closest match i could find was a battaglin max from the 90's that has similar markings. Its a steal frame, quite heavey. Wonder if i should attempt a proper restoration job, my plan was was to just get the thing running... But it looks like a nice bike to trick out with some bling

Was given this bike, not exactly sure what it is never seen it before. It looks pretty old, can anyone recognise it? Not too fimiliar with road bikes, but its got Shimano 105 componetry which I think is good? Its pretty beat up, so I'm looking to bring back to life and use it as commutor or something. http://gilaoss.co.za/images/2014-04-29%2020.35.02.jpg

A wealth of info here, tanks for the replies.... We decided to go with the 26er based on her skill level (beginer) and budget. In terms of the trails we do, its a mix between jeep and smooth - rocky single track , we rarely tackle anything much harrier than the single track through Lebanon Forest, the rest of the time is devided into places like Deer Park, Tokai, Contermans etc. I currently ride a 26er Specialized Epic which has served me well. Was trying to keep up with a 29ner at Tokai yesterday, I actually had to work hard to hold them. Also had to scavange for decent 26er tyres a few weeks ago, so my next purchase is more than likely going to be a 29ner.

For her I know the advantages of a 29er will make almost no difference at all, cause she just rides slow period and she's not overlly fond of rolling over obsticacles. She currently got a 26inch small silverback. I just dont want to buy 29er if its going to be a wierd or lumpy fit.

Im looking to get my hands on entry level MTB bike. I'm looking at the GT Avalance 3.0/2.0 26er and a Mongoose Meteor 29er. The bike is for my lady friend who is 1.58m tall, the dealer recons that a 29er will be to big for some of her hight and that the 26er probably be a better fit. Any thoughts on this?

I had a similar issue! Tried everything even pushing the pistons all the way back with a space. But the one piston just doesn't push out properly and then after while its the same problem. Took the bike to CWC this morning hopefully they can sort it out, really I hope i don't need to chuck the caliper...

I had this problem the few days ago, tried loosing the bolts then holding the lever down while re-tightening the bolts. Didn't help much, I eventually just sort of lined it up with the eye, the pistons seem to even them selves out after a few tight squeezes. Brake works like a dream now....