posted by Karl Hamilton on august 24, 1997 at 11:23:16:
in reply to: re: Ti Road Bike--Merlin or Litespeed? posted by cryoman on august 24, 1997 at 00:05:03:
I agree with Cryoman and Brad. I recently purchased a Litespeed Vortex after having put a good number of miles on a Merlin Extralight for comparison. I am 6'1" and weigh 160 at most, but I do appreciate a firm frame and the Vortex fit the bill better. The biggest turnoff to me was Merlin's frame prices. Here is what I found:
For the price of a Merlin "_____" I could purchase a Litespeed "_______":
Merlin RSR------->Litespeed Classic
Merlin Road------>Litespeed Ultimate
Merlin Extralight-->Litespeed Vortex
Merlin Mountain--->Litespeed Ocoee
Merlin XLM----->Litespeed Owl Hollow or Tellico
Of course there are Serottas, Sevens, and other fine ti bikes that have as good a level of craftsmanship as Merlins that cost quite a bit less. Yes I know Litespeed is larger and probably can do better because of "economies of scale", but my $$$s aren't here to pay for someone elses inflated prices.
Don't get me wrong, Merlins are fine bikes in a "old world craftsmanship" way, but Litespeeds are indeed "State of the Art" and cutting edge when you look at their extensive model lineup and coldworking, tapering, bladed tubing, etc. I'm sorry, BUT MARKETING THE WEAKNESSES OF SOMEONE ELSES APPROACH TO BUILDING FRAMES IS NOT GOING TO FOOL THE EDUCATED CUSTOMER. Litespeeds are every bit as reliable, durable, and beautiful as Merlins--remember beauty in the eye of the beholder. Italian steel is "pretty" but that isnt the reason we buy titanium--we want performance and Litespeed delivers.
Merlin may delete or censor my posting because they might not consider it "appropriate" to criticize their bikes.
Good Riding,
Karl