Raleigh Carlton Super Course 12

I agree whole-heartedly on the brooks saddle. Just have to count my pennies a bit first.

Regarding the freewheel, the terrain I ride is generally pretty flat, and I'm usually riding the 14, 16 and 18 cogs on the stock freewheel... almost exclusively. I find that, in my day-to-day, I very rarely need a combination less than the 42/18. The 14-19 freewheel makes me think that I'd have a much smoother time riding the way I currently ride. I would, however, enjoy a slightly taller top gear... there are times when that 52/14 is just a little too shallow... so... 53T chainring?

I wouldn't bother with the 53, because the difference between the 52 and 53 is less than 2%. I don't know what your options are for your freewheel. Do you just happen to have access to a 14-19, or do you have the option to select cogs? If you start with a 13 instead of 14, that's a difference of (14-13)/14x100=7%, which should be a noticeable difference. You might go for 13,14,15,16,17,19. From 17 to 19 is about 12%, which isn't a huge jump. Or you could go 7 speed, and have a 13-19 cob. You have to change the chain, but not the derailleurs (I'm assuming you have friction shifting, not indexing)

You mentioned aero brake levers. I got 'em for my bike because I built it all from parts and I came up with handlebars with a groove for the cable, but I can't imagine it gives much improvement, unless you prefer the look. If you want better braking, put your money on koolstop salmon brake pads.

Happy riding!

you likely have to take what you can get in the way of freewheels these days, but rather than a 53, you might try a 54 or even a 55 ring. A 55 with a 14 cog is almost like a 13 cog with your 52.

I went to the shop to get the chain for my ultra six yesterday, and the guy at the shop said it's a normal six, so I'm back to the drawing board.

:) thanks for the help. And for the math--not always my strong point.
The aero levers are mostly for comfort while city riding. The stock weinmanns are great, but aeros seem to provide a better upright position where I can still get at the brakes quickly, if that makes sense. It's a beautiful day, so I'm going to get off the internet and go ride, but I'll post more later.