Hello All!
Even though it's still going strong, after numerous repairs [and a
replaced top tube by the genius that is Mike Plummer], it's now time
to replace my trusty-but-not-rusty Miyata road bike. .... Who am I
kidding, after a good 20 years of use, I'll still be riding it, but
mostly for commuting. Still, I'm not complaining, as it was the best
initial investment of $1200.00 I think I've ever made. Lesson
learned, a good bike is worth it's weight in gold!
So being in the market for a new bike leaves me a little bewildered
because so much has changed, even in just the past couple of years.
One such change, is the ubiquitous presence of Carbon Fiber.
Is anyone on this list a big Clydedale of a rider, and on titanium?
If so, I'm very interested to know what your experiences are with it;
namely, is it stiff enough for you?
Did you have the frame customized in some way to better support you?
If so, what was done?
Was it a successful modification?
What would you do, differently, to improve the situation?
I'm not looking to get into racing, but would like another really good
bike for 'quick and spirited' club riding. I'd also like something
for distance, as that seems to be where I gravitate to as opposed to
speed.
.... perhaps it's a mid-life crisis, but my heart says go for a Merlin
Extralight with Campagnolo 'Chorus' or even 'Record'.
For those on a Merlin titanium frame, what is the company like to deal
with, in terms of warranty repairs? Was their work completed to your
level of satisfaction? How long does it usually take to get your bike
back from them?
So far, I've tested a Litespeed Siena, Merlin Cyrene or Extralight,
[custom geometry] and Marinoni blend up carbon tubes and titanium lugs
[also custom geometry]. Of all these, the Siena seemed to be the
best, but the front end was pretty soft and mushy. It was fitted with
an Easton EC 90 SL.
I remember being surprised by how much flex there was and the general
mushy feel? Aside from likely being too heavy for it, I would have
thought that a carbon fork would ride much like a steel one?
..... woops! I think I blathered on a little too much, here. So, I'll
let it end here.
Cheers to all!
Bill
p.s. Knowledgeable and insightful suggestions will be gratefully
received at this 'G-mail' address, or this one:
[email hidden]
Given my current setup, it's difficult getting back to this Usenet
group, so an e-mail response is preferred.