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Build Overview
This one’s a little different from the new RLTs and gravel builds we’ve been sharing. Instead of a fresh frame-up build, this project started with an older Masi road bike that the owner has had for a long time and still really loves. The frame was in great shape and worth investing in, so the goal was to modernize the ride without losing the character of the bike.
We updated the bike with a Shimano Ultegra 11-speed mechanical drivetrain, a modern cockpit using an adapter for a newer bar and stem, and fresh bar tape. We kept the original crank and brakes to preserve the look and feel of the bike while significantly improving shifting, ergonomics, and overall ride quality.
Video
Full Build Specs
- Frame: Vintage Masi road frame
- Shifters: Shimano Ultegra 11-speed mechanical
- Rear Derailleur: Shimano Ultegra 11-speed
- Front Derailleur: Shimano Ultegra (toggle-style)
- Crankset: Original vintage crankset (retained)
- Brakes: Original caliper brakes
- Handlebar: Zipp Service Course
- Stem: Modern stem mounted via adapter
- Bar Tape: Lizard Skins
- Wheels: Existing upgraded wheelset compatible with 11-speed
Build Notes
We don’t say “yes” to every older bike that comes in for upgrades—sometimes it just doesn’t make sense. This Masi, though, checked all the right boxes: the frame was in excellent condition, the customer has a real attachment to it, and the upgrade path made sense without throwing money at something that shouldn’t be saved.
The standout upgrade was moving the bike to Shimano Ultegra 11-speed mechanical. For all the electronic shifting we work with today, Ultegra 11-speed mechanical is still incredibly good—reliable, crisp, and a major improvement over older drivetrains.
We kept the original crankset and brakes to preserve the bike’s classic look. Older chainrings sometimes introduce minor warp, and 11-speed tolerances are tight, but with careful adjustment we got the shifting silky smooth.
The cockpit update made a huge difference. Using an adapter allowed us to install a modern stem and Zipp Service Course bar, then wrap it with fresh Lizard Skins tape. Combined with updated shifting, the bike feels dramatically better while still looking like the vintage Masi the owner loves.
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Work With Us
If you’ve got a classic bike you love and want to see if a modern refresh is worth doing, we’re happy to take a look and give honest feedback.