Handmade Cyclocross Bike: James' Wilkins

A retro rig, I like it.

I bought this old "Brian Wilkins" Reynolds 531 tourer second-hand nearly two years ago with the idea of doing it up into some sort of all-purpose, early '70s-style, mean machine: not a pure cyclocross bike as such, but more like one than anything else. I started the upgrade / part-replacement at the start of 2009 and finished in the summer - and I have enjoyed taking inspiration from your website throughout the process... Thanks P.O.L.!

I have tried to keep to vintage parts by-and-large, but without getting too hung up about it and without spending too much money.

SPEC.
Frame: Brian Wilkins, London circa 1973 vintage. Cantilever mounts added - 2008. Resprayed - 2009.
Wheels: Mavic Open Pro (new)
Tyres: Normally Specialized Borough 32s (for daily commute). Here race-ready Schwalbe CX Pro 32s.
Brakes: Shimano Altus (I think - new)
Levers: Weinmann (original with NOS e-bay hoods)
Saddle: Iscaselle Tornado (NOS e-bay)
Seatpost: Kalloy (NOS e-bay)
Handlebars / Stem: Cinelli Campione del Mundo / Cinelli (both NOS)
Rear derailleur: Shimano 600 (NOS e-bay)
Gear levers: ditto but with Arabesque styling (NOS e-bay)
Front derailleur: Suntour Superbe Pro (NOS e-bay)
Cranks & Chainset: Sakae SR (original)

Weight: unknown but around 21lb? Total cost including re-spraying approx GB £700. I take part in my first cyclocross race tomorrow ("Muddy Hell" at the 'cross track around Herne Hill Velodrome, London, UK). It's in the dark and the course goes through the beer tent... Hopefully the forecast rain will have stopped by the evening!

Thanks again. Hope you like the photos - and keep up the good work!

Regards,
James W.
London, UK