Fixed Gear Merciers
05-27-05, 10:49 AM
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Fixed Gear Merciers
I've noticed recently a bunch of Mercier track bikes on eBay. What's interesting is that they appear to come with fender, rack and brake mounts so it is an ideal bike for city. The new bikes are pretty expensive- about $750. However the eBay ones come at less than that. In any event, I was wondering if anyone has one of these. how are hey as track bikes. Are they any good. The price beats Bianchi Pisata by couple of hundered bucks.
05-27-05, 11:52 AM
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You know what's sad? I opened up this thread because I misread the title and thought this was going to be about MERCIANS. I think the "Gera" threw me off.
05-27-05, 12:05 PM
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I have one of the ebay Merciers. They were the cheapest track bike available. As you noted several $100 less than most other choices. The parts are about what you would expect for the price. Truvati Tour Cranks, no-name hubs, etc. Everything works but don't expect it to hold up to harsh conditions. The frame seems pretty nice with good looking welds and light weight large diameter steel tubes. The geometry is trackish but a little more relaxed which seems good for the road.
My complaints were that the cog and lock ring were not tight when I got it. And I have had problems with the headset loosening. I would have perfered a threadless as the current configuration seems to have too much play even when I tighten the headset down to the point where it restricts the turning. The only thing missing from a commuter/city setup is a water bottle mount.
In conclusion I think it is a decent entry level fixie but if I could afford the difference I'd go with the IRO.
Craig
My complaints were that the cog and lock ring were not tight when I got it. And I have had problems with the headset loosening. I would have perfered a threadless as the current configuration seems to have too much play even when I tighten the headset down to the point where it restricts the turning. The only thing missing from a commuter/city setup is a water bottle mount.
In conclusion I think it is a decent entry level fixie but if I could afford the difference I'd go with the IRO.
Craig
