Here's my latest project, a 1985 (1984 frame build) Trek 720 touring bike. I have been in the market for a touring bike again after I sold my Panasonic Pro Touring a few years ago (instantly regretted selling it but it went to a friend who appreciates it, so all is well). I also had a 1998 Trek 520 from age 12-18 that I rode the wheels off of so I do like a good touring bike. This one showed up nearby for a semi-reasonable price. A little on the high side when factoring in actual usable parts but far less than that '71 Paramount I was eyeing, haha!
These are highly regarded for their touring characteristics and build quality. They feature extremely long chainstays for stability and to avoid foot/pedal strikes with the panniers when loaded. They also feature 531 tubing and were handbuilt in Waterloo, Wisconsin. Although this one is decaled as an '85 model, these frames stopped production in 1984.
The plan is to get rid of the worn, grimy and mismatched parts and add some quality and correct parts befitting of such a rig. About the only parts that will stay will be the headset, front derailleur, handlebars, shifters and crankset/BB.
View attachment 1280840
View attachment 1280841
View attachment 1280842