I used an almost complete '98 Ultegra gruppo in building up the bike, with the only deviation from the norm being the triple chainring option (because I like spinning up the hills) combined with a short-cage derailleur (because I prefer its traditional looks). I added 3ttt 'Prima 220' bars because they are very light and the ergo bend is sooo comfortable, only to add more than the weight saved with Cinelli 'Spinaci Light' bar extensions (upgraded from heavier 3ttt 'Tiramisu', which I had put on originally and which are now on my rain bike). Hey, I don't race anymore, so I don't have to worry about UCI regulations, and they are very comfortable on long flat rides. The drilled-out 'Spinaci Light' with Ti bolts weigh 208 g, saving 37 g over the standard version; the 'Tiramisu' weigh 278 g).

Nowadays my handlebar of choice would be Ritchey 'Logic Pro Road'. It is about as light as the 3ttt but according to the German road bike magazine "tour" it will survive much longer. The tune/Schmolke "Spurtstark" is even lighter (at 165-185 g), but its outrageous price is a bit too much for me.

I have recently changed the fork to a Kinesis Carbon2 fork. The new fork is somewhat more comfortable, but mainly it looks better. The bike is pretty much perfect as it is right now. The color is rather bland, but that's about it.