The Old Faithful: Steel Avanti Monza aka Frankenbike

At the same time I had my Colnago built I had a bit of an update for my old faithful commuter the Frankenbike. It gets that name because it's really a cobbled together bike, although it's a steel Avanti Monza at the moment, it started out as a Malvern Star before the frame rusted through. It doesn't even have matching tyres. This is a progression of it's life in photos so far.

The latest addition is a set of Velocity Chukker rims laced to a 36h hub for it's commuting duties. It used to sport a set of American Classics but they were getting a little beaten up with the heavy duty commuting runs. It's certainly not the lightest setup but it is always a pleasure to ride. The new Velocity Wheels are amazing, they roll so smoothly and silently and with the wider footprint they are a comfortable way to roll around.

Here are the specs (for those who care)

Frame:
Avanti Monza Steel (circa 1996)

Fork/Headset:
Roselli 700c 45mm Rake Chromoly Fork

Crankset/Bottom Bracket:
Shimano Ultegra 6500

Pedals:
Shimano PD-M530

Drivetrain/Cog/Chainring/Chain:
11-25 / 53/39 / Shimano Ultegro 6500

Derailleurs/Shifters:
Shimano Ultegra 6500

Handlebars/Stem:
42cm. FSA / FSA 90mm

Saddle/Seatpost:
Fizik Arione / FSA

Brakes:
Shimano Ultegra 6500

Front Wheel/Hub/Tire:
Velocity Chukker  / Maxxis Refuse

Rear Wheel/Hub/Tire:
Velocity Chukker  / Continental GatorSkin