I purchased a 1988 Trek 400 in the spring 2009 because I wanted a lugged Cro-MO frame with 700c wheels and index shifting to ride in Southeastern Michigan. I soon realized that I wanted "Brifters" (shifters in the brake handles). I found out that Shimano 8-speed Brifters could operate a seven speed freewheel if you blocked out the "low" position with the derailleur adjustment.

I changed a few items to "improve" the bicycle which ended up with the following upgrades:
New Sefaras 700c tires with tubes
Shimano 105 SS rear derailluer
Shimano 8-speed chain
IRD 7-speed Freewheel 12-28
Compact 52/36 chainwheel with crank
E3 Seat
Shimano 8-speed Brifters with cables
FSA wing road handlebar
FSA OS-150 Stem
Bike Nashbar Stem Converter
Shimano A520 Pedals
Trek Bicycle Computer
Trek Handle Bar Tape

I have decided to not upgrade the wheels so that I could have the 8th gear, as the present wheels have sealed bearings and can run 700X23 tires on them. I also did not want to get into an 8-speed cassette.

With the current "extra" equipment, kick stand, seat bag, ring-ring bell and water bottle holder, the bicycle weighs about 23.5 Lbs, but it rides great.

Joel Forman

jforma@aol.com