posted by Alex Zuckerman on february 19, 1998 at 10:17:26:
in reply to: Chinese titanium tubing used in Merlin framesets. Taiga is referred to as the "cheese" bike by employees. What a waste for $1500 bucks. Questions need to be addressed. posted by Concerned consumer on february 17, 1998 at 23:31:39:
As a Merlin owner and a frequent visitor to this web site I must appologize for paul's (pje) biased and uneducated response to your legitimate question.
Grade 4 tubing is inferior. Everyone that has responded to you so far owns one of the nicer models that does not have G4 tubes. I honestly do not know whether the tubing comes from China or not. The Taiga is definately overpriced if you consider the tubing alone. For the same amount (or even less) you could have a bike that's made of full 3/2.5 tubing such as a GT or a Litespeed. Merlin feels that they are justified in charging so much for this bike because of their reputation and the craftmanship that goes into the product. They probably don't realize that the Taiga tubes are not worth their craftsmanship, which significantly over-inflates the price.
If you're looking to spend about $1500, consider a Litespeed or any other ti bike. If you're willing to blow it all, then a Merlin is a good choice. Also, check into Seven Cycles. They make some great bikes, too.
Good luck,
Alex