[dd74]

nostatic: LeMond Zurich frame ain't bad.

Just climbed Barham Boulevard with not too much effort. Something in the gearing and stiffness. It saw the hill and responded.

I looked at all the traditional Italian frames: Colnago, Pinarello, Coppi, Mercyx, etc., etc. CA-made bikes as well: Steelman, Marin, Soma, Calfee. Even checked into the Ti and Carbon: Kestral, Dean, Seven, Moots, Independent, Look, Time, etc., etc.

Did you know there's a bike made in Alabama called "Sofa King?" Hilarious name! But looks damn fast!

I tested a Giant carbon - that thing would rattle me apart. Also a Crevelo (sp?) - Canadian bike. Aluminum and Carbon mix - it road like a skateboard.

As is, I came to the conclusion that if you're not riding more than twice a week, why bother dropping $3 to 5K? Reynolds steel works just as well.

LeMond weighs in at 18 pounds anyway. Ti is a pound less. I also put on a pair of super cool Speedplay pedals. They're as trick as an MFI 2.7...well, maybe not as trick, but it's getting there.

Anyway, I'm back to steel and it's fun, fun, fun...