Of course the Reynolds framed bike was faster! I've noticed my Reynolds framed Vent Noir is faster, and stiffer than my much more modern Mercier Corbus made of butted aluminum. I suspect the stiffer, more efficient frame has a lot to do with it. However, the reynolds framed Vent Noir is a LOT harsher on poorly paved roads. Luckily I used a modified Brooks anatomic saddle.