Maiden Voyage

Sometimes getting things done requires a sense of distance. Taking my own advice I spirited myself away for a few days in Norfolk-a region of the UK known as East Anglia notorious for being flat as the proverbial pancake. That said, even in Norwich the fixer scene was conspicuous by it's absence- a shame not least as I spotted the perfect graffiti backdrop for fixer photo-shoots.

Internet thieves have temporarily foiled my plans to purchase the seductive wheelset with large flange hubs so I commandeered another set, otherwise perfect for the build on Thursday morning. Older frames can spring surprises and final preparations demanded judicious filing of the ends to accommodate modern axle diameters. Gearing is now a moderate 79 inches courtesy of a 48 tooth front ring and 16 tooth EAI superstar sprocket-ample for bombing along the flat yet merciful in the hills. An uncharacteristically lacklustre Miche chain has been replaced by a substantial silver KMC offering which lacks the consummate refinement of some-especially the upmarket half link variety but enjoys phenomenal lateral rigidity, meaning transmission braking/track standing is laughably easy. Fitting some micro LEDs, a twenty two function computer capable of damn near everything bar making the tea and with the obligatory multi-tools, patch and compact camera kit slipped into the seatpack we were ready for the off...

Swing a leg over the top-tube and from the first few pedal strokes it's obvious why these now comparatively rare bikes were so popular back in the day. Short 16 inch chainstays deliver punchy performance whether sprinting away from the lights or powering along the open road. Steering is quick, yet predictable trickling through town or cornering hard on long, winding descents. 531 might no longer be the benchmark tubeset for quality lightweights but superior build quality compared with some modern frames confirms the old adage that craftsmanship, not materials maketh fine frames. For all the period fork's charms, I strongly suspect the modern, carbon replacement enhances the ride quality, delivering smooth passage over rougher surfaces while shaving a few precious grams into the bargain.

There's no trace of power robbing flex when climbing out of the saddle or dancing on the pedals, although I tip the scales at a relatively modest 70 kilos so can get away with using old fashioned square taper bottom brackets paired to modest cranksets. Stopping for some mid ride photos revealed the stem slightly misaligned but easily rectified using a 5mm Allen key. Thanks in part to a beefy chain, dependable transmission braking left the Miche calliper with relatively little to do, although it's proven a worthy stopper and in time, upgrading the pads will undoubtedly sharpen performance. Proportionally short in the torso, the Holdsworth feels overly generous in the top-tube but sliding the saddle forward compromises a good fit, placing me further over the bottom bracket into the bargain. This has the positive side-effect of increased power delivery, although I might purchase a slightly shorter Nitto stem when funds allow.

I long ago ceased talking in terms of complete and final builds given all my machines are, to some degree works in progress and subject to constant evolution. Upgrading to a larger and more practical wedge pack has necessitated removal of the Nitto cage and carry bracket so I'm returning to the hydration pack until a suitably paint friendly clip-on cage comes under my radar.