Cyclocross - Thoughts on Kelly, Merckx and Ridley (promised I wouldn't do this)

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LA Law
08-19-04, 01:50 PM
I'm sorry to have begun another one of these thread, but I promise I've searched.

I'm building a bike to commute on, race 'cross on, and ride trails on. Essentially the jack of all trades bike.

I've always wanted a Merckx frame (since I was a little kid drooling over the Pinarellos, Bataglins and Merckxs in my local shop) and I like the fact that that it is overbuilt with Easton tubing and has such a high bottom bracket. It is also super sexy in a euro-roadie kinda way.

The Kelly compliments my Steelman SR very well (and my love for American boutique steel frames). It is designed for mountain componants (which I think is cool) and will have the lovely ride of steel. My only concern is tire clearance. I've been told it is an issue with his frames.

The Ridley is cheap, cool and fast. Perhaps too focused on racing for what I'm thinking. I'm still thinking about it because it is such a great 'cross frame and it is so affordable.

I welcome (crave, actually) all your thoughts on these bikes (and any others in the $900 price range).

Thanks.


mosovich
08-21-04, 12:36 PM
I supose your looking at a frameset? Ck out tha ALAN's. I love mine. Here's a pic, and it has a waterbottle boss unlike the Ridley.