Classic & Vintage - Colnago Olympic vs. Master

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sirwaxalot
08-12-04, 09:59 AM
Does anyone know the difference between Colnago's "Master Olympic" and "Master X Light" framesets?

Thanks

Walter
08-12-04, 10:13 AM
Master X Light is still the current "Master" frame. It has vertical dropouts and for the past several years comes with one or another of Colnago's spray finishes. Most "decals" are painted. The "Olympic" (I own one) is slightly older. Colnago had to drop the "Olympic" title in the US. They have more "sedate" paint jobs, normal decalling and horizontal dropouts.

Same Columbus Gilco shaped tubing.
sirwaxalot
08-12-04, 11:02 AM
Thanks, Walter. I'm trying to decide between a Master X Light frame and a Master Olympic frame and cannot make up my mind. Both are new, and the Olympic is slightly less expensive. Both are downright beautiful. Any suggestions?

Walter
08-12-04, 04:41 PM
Pretty similar when you get to it. The XLs have paint jobs that are beautiful but some feel over the top. My Master Olympic is a typical Italian red with a chromed chain stay. For awhile XLs in the /Mapei scheme were popular. Same frame but VERY different finishes.

The difference in DOs might be a factor. For me, if you like the Olympic I'd save the $ and go with it as there's no real difference that I've been told about.

Apparently brand new 2005 Master XL's are cominfg with carbon fiber rear triangles but keeping the chromed head lugs they've had for years.

:beer: