Give me a brake..

Jewellery almost..

Although the modern dual pivoted calipers are more advanced and superior in the output of brake power, to my personal opinion the Campagnolo Monoplanar is the perfect example of enginerical style and beauty. The ratio and mutual dimensions of the levers and pinch arms, the angle under which they are placed, as well as the size and shape in which the material is forged, are a true form of art.

Better design versus better engineering..

The pointed bolts on both the central axle and inner cable fixture on the lower arm, in combination with the robust mounting area of the brake pads seem to create both dynamics and harmony. They were present on Tecnos one, and for sure would be on Tecnos two as well. But here I was unlucky, but with a happy ending after all. I had spotted a new old stock Chorus set, still in the original box, on the German E-bay. The price was high and my initial counteroffer was turned down. Further extended search led to no satisfying alternatives and upon returning to the advertisement to close the deal, it was gone.

I was heavily disappointed and severely regretted my natural Dutch bargaining habit. 

No Monoplanars in the desired condition were to be found for quite some time, until luck knocked on my door again. Rather close to home on Marketplace. A set of Athenas. Used, but in seemingly nice condition and for a reasonable price. Upon receipt, they turned out to be close to new and I was a happy man again. All mechanical parts were available now. Seat and seatpost plus stem and handlebar were the last challenges.