I did it. I bought that 2007 Sarthe that I was looking at. Here's the low-down on the bike.
I'm very excited about it.
There was something wrong with the front brake, so they swapped my Shimano 105 brakes out for Cane Creek SCR-3 brakes. The shop claimed they are comparable, so hopefully that is true. I think the black looks a bit better than the silver, anyway.
I also looked at the Alpe D'Huez, also a LeMond bike, with a carbon fiber 'spine' and the rest aluminum. It was the same price, and also a very smooth ride, but most of the components were a step lower (I guess because the carbon fiber is more expensive). I'm glad to have Ultegra on the rear derailleur.
I think this is the perfect bike for me. I'm not too concerned about steel being a bit heavier and not as stiff. Those are things that would be nice if I thought I was going to race. But since I'm buying a bike for distance riding, I'm happy to give up the stiffness and weight for a more comfortable ride.
Plus it's a sweet classic looking bike. I like the 2007 better than the new blue 2008 style, too.
Time to get in shape!
