Reynolds 853 frame for 200+ rider - good choice?

[socalrider]

I have a chance to pick up a Landshark bike with Reynolds 853 tubing.. I am over 200+ and just curious how stiff these frames would be. All the steel bikes I've owned in the past have been columbus SL and SLX.

Any input would be appreciated..

[sniperracing]

I am over 200 and will build a steel frame this winter with larger tubed 853. The 853 pro team should stay with the under 160 crowd per my frame builder.

[socalrider]

This bike is a Local sale, I will be picking up... The bike is about 9 years old, pretty tame paint job for Landshark standards.. Bike was ridden by a recreational rider so it is very good shape.. The group is a mix of Ultegra / dura ace and has some decent wheels.. 700.00 is what he is asking.. seems like a good deal..

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

[sniperracing]

I am not familiar with Landshark. The frame should be fine since it was a rec rider. Even if it was not a recreational rider it would take an a lot to wear out. My builder has done a 853 frame for a 260lb rider. Current cost to build a 853 steel is well over 1000.00. I guess you will have to make a decision. Ask if they have treated the inside of the frame with frame saver.

Good luck

[zephyr16]

im about 190ish and i have a norco 416 jumper made from 853. rides like a dream, seems to absorb all the harsh landings really well. not an roadie, so i couldnt really comment on the stiffness thing, but it is definitly strong enough.

[drdhsimon]

Landsharks are fantastic frames with a great reputation for quality behind them. I've never had the pleasure to ride one, but a couple of people I used to ride with in Seattle loved theirs. I would call John, who is the framebuilder and ask him about it (http://www.landsharkbicycles.com/). If there is a serial number on the frame, he may even be able to look up the exact tubes to find the butting/thickness to help you out....and I think the price is fair.

[wagathon]

I have Lemond's largest frame (61c) in 853 and to me it is great riding--the best steel frame ever. I don't think there has ever been any issues about the strength of butted steel frames.

My guess is that those that do not like the feel of butted steel frames probably experience some flex at the bottom bracket that they do not like compared to a stiffer aluminum frame. However, if that is the complaint, that would only have to to do the action of the frame with power applied to pedals and not the amount of weight on the saddle.

:)