Mmmmm Merlin Extralight 51cm

[Dr Frigo]

Hey kids

I'm considering parting with my Merlin frameset, which is a 2005 model in 51cm (geometry here: http://www.merlinbike.com/bikes/2005/ge ... light&k=rd

Nothing wrong with it, in fact I would say it's the best road frame I ever had but then again it's the only one I ever owned! (in my size). Comfortable, won't break, lasts forever etc ... But the lure of a newer, (even) lighter, cooler frame and that bloody Butlers sale .... (yes, Grahame, it would be carbon ).

Weighs 1170gm (2.58lbs) which is about next to nothing (your average Omega would be at least 3.3). Comes with a black King headset that will last as long as the frame, and Real full carbon forks, all of which have had 15 month use.

Frame only retailed at £2.2k, sell frameset for £975.

Photo of a larger size from Merlin site (can do pics if interest)
[img]http://www.merlinbike.com/images/2005/xlite_lg.jpg[/img]

[Andrew G]

You must be mad your bike is gorgeous, if only I hadn't bought a new machine in May.
Even lighter! Is that possible, unless your thinking of becoming an Addict.

[Elliot M]

VERY INTERESTED SYLV

[Dr Frigo]

Ok. I am 5ft 6 1/2 (169cm).

[siwickm]

Damn, if only you were 6ft 5 and a half.

Cheers

Marek....

[Dr Frigo]

[quote]Damn, if only you were 6ft 5 and a half.

Cheers

Marek....

[Elliot M]

i am 5'7". Have been looking at ti frames but as you say the (relatively) cheap makes are (relatively) heavy and i wasn't sure about buying something that might actually be heavier than my current Cannondale CAAD5. While 2 sizes too small for me, it's still one of the lighter Al frames.

Does my current fitness (zero and falling) justify it? Of course not!

Let me know what you want to do - sure I can take the local orphans Xmas presents back to Hamleys.

[Dr Frigo]

Elliot
I run it with a 90mm stem and saddle in correct position from BB centre.
Allowing for relative body size discrepancies you should be able to run same stem size or slightly longer.
You would be welcome to try the bike. I can't make this clubrun or the next unfortunately as I'll be away from Weds.
But I could possibly bring it to yours this Tuesday night, it's only 7 miles away. I'm back on the 27th so could lend you the bike in the meantime if you want (as long as it doesn't get stolen!).
For you I will go down to £940 - then you wouldn't have to bring back the toys to Hamleys. Or include the Bonty XXX carbon stem for £985
BTW I'm eyeing on the discounted Look 585. I might live to regret this but hey

[Elliot M]

Yeah, would like a test ride but am out Tues night so might have to wait...

Isn't the 585 a bit heavy for you? Would have thought you'd be looking at a Ghisallo...

[Dr Frigo]

Can do tonight if you're around.

It's not so much about losing weight, but still the 585 is <1kg.

[Elliot M]

not in till late tonight...

[Dr Frigo]

ok. you can see the bik in action here.

http://www.dgs-photography.co.uk/cyclin ... 06&Index=1