About my road bikes

I now own two road bikes. The bikes are pictured below. Click on the photo and see the full bike. I have yet to master posting photos, so be patient.
1983 Nishiki Cresta

The first photo is of my 1983 Nishiki Cresta, purchased from Daniel Boone Cycles in Houston. The purchase was in the Spring of 1984. Over the years, I've put at least 8,000 miles on the bike. It remains mostly original. The rear derailleur was replaced in 1986 with a Sun Tour XC 4000. I've no recollection of what originally came on the bike other than it too was a Sun Tour, but not very good. The saddle is not original, but is the same model. The original Avocet Touring I saddle was black, the replacement a honey color. The bike set up for about 9 years, not ridden and somewhat exposed to the elements, the bike suffered little damage and cleaned up nicely.

The touring geometry of the Cresta makes for a gentle ride, but it isn't the best at cornering and quick maneuvers. I love to ride the bike, but wanted something a bit quicker and lighter. Thus, the next bike.

1987 Centurion Lemans RS

The second bike pictures is a recent acquisition. Its a 1987 Centurion Lemans RS, considered a good mid-range bike produced by Centurion, later to become Diamondback, for the US market. Its original except for the saddle and new handlebar tape. Dérailleurs are Shimano Light Action, which I'm told is an unpolished version of the 105. After a set of new tires, cleaning, and oiling, the bike rode great. It met my expectations, not the least of which was a pocket book that cannot afford new bikes.

So far, the Centurion hasn't been out on the road as often as I would like. I'm not fond of high heat and humidity, common in Houston and the heat has been higher than normal, even for my town. The last week, rain has kept me off the road. Also, I'm not typically and early riser, so morning rides haven't been happening. Hopefully, that will change next week. During the school year, I get my grandson ready for school. He's now 5 and starts kindergarten this fall. I'll be getting up early, have 5 or so hours before he comes home, and plan to begin riding at least one hour a day.

1983 Nishiki Cresta

1983 Nishiki Cresta, originally uploaded by greyloon.

Original except for rear dérailleur replaced in 1986 with a Sun Tour XC 4000, saddle(original was a black Avocet Tour I, this is the same model in honey). I'm the original owner, purchased new from Daniel Boone's Cyclery, Houston, Tx 1984.

1987 Centurion Lemans RS

1987 Centurion Lemans RS, originally uploaded by greyloon.

Original with Shimano Light Action dérailleurs, Shimano Bio-Pace chainrings, and Araya rims. Replaced the original seat with a Koobie, installed new bar tape, same color as original.