subject: re: re: re: re: Potential buyer - road bike frame - questions

comments:
: : : : : : : I'm SERIOUSLY looking at a new Merlin Road frame. : : : : I'm a "fast" recreational rider - 70 milers on weekend : : : : with an occasional century. : : : : Comfort is big concern. Especially road vibration : : : : of bars. : : : : Tell me your experience. : : : : Also - does the Extralight absorb more vibration? : : : : Thanks, : : : : Clay : : In seven years as a Merlin dealer, I have never had a customer : : who is disappointed with his or her purchase. However, with regard : : to road frames, it is very important to realize that the standard : : frame has a bit more lateral flex through the bottom bracket than does : : the Extralight. If you are a strong,big-gear masher or just a heavier : : person (175+lbs.), I would highly recommend the stiffer frame of the Extralight. : : The vertical compliance is claimed to be a bit lower on the Extralight, but : : saddle, tire pressure, shoe fit, and fork are more important in this comparison : : of two very comfortable frames. : : Jon Clark : Clay / Jon! Hi! i think your answere to Clay's questions Jon is absolutely "bang-on". Clay i weigh 180 lbs.,ride a 1994 Merlin Road & i love it! Yes there is some very slight "flexing" if I stand and really try to "honk up that hill" but even on those extremely rare occassions the very slight flexing does not bother me at all & in fact i kind of enjoy the experience!. in regards to "vibes on the bars" i used a Rock Shox Paris Rubais (spelling) front fork ( i have now got a Ruby Road but can't try it out yet is its winter here in Ottawa). i found that the Rock Shox took away any remaining harshness but there is little to remove really! i have arthritis in my wrists & that is why i went suspension front fork. Botton line? Unless you are a gear- masher- monster buy a Merlin Road & be happy! You will appreciate the pride of owning the best. paul