New Bike - Lemond Zurich vs Masi Gran Corsa

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After approx. 10 yrs, I'm in the market for a new bike and I'm kind of loss. My present bike is a Cannondale R800 with Ultegra STI & Carbon Fork Upgrade. I have enjoyed it very much, but in my old age of 42, I'm hearing that steel may be in my future and much less stiff. I have looked at two bikes specifically which are in my price range. The Lemond Zurich fitted with Ultegra and Carbon Fork appears to be a good steel choice. I'm riding it at lunch today to check it out. The other bike I stumbled on at a local ski/bike store. Its a Masi Gran Corsa. Essentially a Masi Custom Superlight Alum with Carbon Stays, Fork and Seat Post. Full Ultegra as well. The bike appears to be a great deal at $1,499.00. I'll be riding it on Thurs. when it gets delivered. I was simply looking for some comments that may help me in my decision. The Masi will probably be stiff but I'm thinking with the Carbon Stays, mush less stiffer than my Cannondale. It appears to be light and fast. Although I'm not racing, I still like to compete the local rides. Any comments/recommendations are appreciated.

A test ride of both bikes is definitely in order. Masi also has some steel framed bikes available. I was considering both a Masi Speciale and a LeMond Buenos Aires for my most recent (last Saturday) road bike purchase. Both handled very well, with the Masi being very slightly quicker. However, I ended up with a Jamis Quest after all of my test riding was complete.

http://www.masibikes.com
http://www.lemondbikes.com
http://www.jamisikes.com

I think the last time I checked on a Masi at our local ski/bike store, the Masi are made by Haro and the bike I looked at (853 steel road bike) was made in Taiwan. Check on the frame, it should be marked. I am just saying if I buy a Italian road bike I want it made in Italy. At least you know the LeMond is made in U.S.A. Not knocking the craftsmanship of the Masi . If it's made in Italy, I would prefer the Masi over the LeMond. Let us know the outcome.

Originally posted by Ralph Ray
I think the last time I checked on a Masi at our local ski/bike store, the Masi are made by Haro and the bike I looked at (853 steel road bike) was made in Taiwan. Check on the frame, it should be marked. I am just saying if I buy a Italian road bike I want it made in Italy. At least you know the LeMond is made in U.S.A. Not knocking the craftsmanship of the Masi . If it's made in Italy, I would prefer the Masi over the LeMond. Let us know the outcome.

Well, I went a totally different Route and bought a Litespeed Arenberg Ti Bike with Ultegra. I got it at a great deal and I know its a great bike. Thanks for your response.