1978 Shorter Rochford sprint bike

boogercj

I've been into MTB since I was a nipper but I really want to get into road riding. My current MTB is a singlespeed and I love the singlespeed thing. I mentioned I was after a road bike, and my mate sent me some pictures of his uncle's Shorter Cycles road bike from the 70's. Says I can have it for £200. Not quite sure on the exact spec, but it's the right size for me (21" and I'm just over 6') and has Shimano Dura-ace cranks and Campagnolo deralllieurs from the pictures. Anyone think this is madness, or should I go for it? I personally really like the look of it and might make a great SS bike one day!






I imagine it might need a new BB, tyres and a good service but everything else is aparently in great condition. Any opinions?

boogercj

OK, some more (rough spec):

Alan Shorter sprint bike circa 1978 - only one of 5 made
Columbus tubing
Shimano 10 Dura Ace chainset
Shimano brakes
Campagnolo hubs, rims and tubs
Campagnolo Derallieurs
Concor leather saddle
All original.

More pics:

Monty Dog

FWIW chainset/pedals are Shimano DuraAce AX - introduced in 1981 - quite collectable these day. I wouldn't attribute any high value to the frame, but its still a nice period piece. Sell the wheels and parts and you'll have enough to fund your conversion..

LeighB

Looks like a very nice bike, have you any idea what tubing it is made from?
Any mention of Shorter frames makes me think back to my youth looking at pictures of Alf Engers; I think he used a Shorter frame when he broke the 25 mile record and went under 50 minutes.

LeighB

Just read the second post, Columbus tubing so it would be quite good quality. If you do decide to buy it make sure the seat post and stem are not seized in.

Monty Dog

Expect the frame tubing is Columbus SL - it was the top frame tubing of that era

boogercj

Crumbs, cheers guys! Well on all that info I've committed to buyign it now - can't wait to get it back frome London and let it loose on these Devon hills!