What makes the Litespeed Classic "Classic"?
03-30-08, 10:59 PM
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What makes the Litespeed Classic "Classic"?
I am continuing my search for the right Litespeed for me. I just missed a great Tuscany by minutes. But I did spot a 2000 Classic that might do very nicely. One thing I noticed is that the seat tube angles are a bit steeper than the rest of the line, which works for me.
But, what makes it Classic?
Thanks
RFC
But, what makes it Classic?
Thanks
RFC
03-31-08, 12:31 AM
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classic is just a model name they use, it doesn't have anything to do with it's age..
03-31-08, 01:30 AM
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Keen grasp of the obvious.
Let me rephrase -- how does the Classic differ from other bikes in the Litespeed line?
Let me rephrase -- how does the Classic differ from other bikes in the Litespeed line?
03-31-08, 09:22 AM
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It's called the Classic because it is a classic double diamond frame with round tubes and no carbon rear. Note that it has a longish TT and a 1" headset, which limits your fork choices. I traded mine years ago for a Merckx Majastic. It is essentially the same bike with manipulated tubes at the BB and Merckx Century Geometry.
03-31-08, 11:16 AM
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My main ride. It looks like a traditional road bike of the time. BTW, I don't think any of the main tubes are actually perfectly round, but subtly shaped, tapered, squished. Straight, though, no curved stays, no sections made of built-up sheet metal. Nice touches on most versions are the braze-on front der. and seatpost binder. They made the claim that the geometry was classic road racing.
03-31-08, 11:21 AM
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Just because it has a classic design and geometry with no frills like curved stays, compact geometry, or multi-material construction. They don't still make it, do they?
Litespeedlouie is correct that they're not perfectly round. My 1996 model had tapered (butted) top tube and I think down tube too. But I think they are essentially straight.
Litespeedlouie is correct that they're not perfectly round. My 1996 model had tapered (butted) top tube and I think down tube too. But I think they are essentially straight.
03-31-08, 11:52 AM
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Classic European geometry.
BTW the tubing is "shaped", not round like, say, a 70's era steel bike.
Also BTW, mine has an inch and 1/8 headset.
I love mine.
Bob
BTW the tubing is "shaped", not round like, say, a 70's era steel bike.
Also BTW, mine has an inch and 1/8 headset.
I love mine.
Bob
03-31-08, 12:51 PM
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Have a 1999 model and it is and has been a real workhorse for me. Now it is my winter bike and fares very well in that roll.
It is relatively heavy compared to newer models and a bit flexy around the BB but a real solid bike with no obvious flaws.
It is relatively heavy compared to newer models and a bit flexy around the BB but a real solid bike with no obvious flaws.
