Originally Posted by
blackrim
I am looking for a steel road racing bike (or at least more aggressive than say the Gunnar roadie). I have narrowed it down to (in increasing price) curtlo S3, jamis eclipse, waterford R33, and independent fab steel crown jewel. I would love to spend less if possible, so not going for some custom candy, just would like a practical steel racing bike that will last. I know the curtlo s3 is the cheapest, but would love to hear if the increase in cost for the others is worth it.
Doug Curtiss (Curtlo) builds a great bike. He charges a price he is comfortable with. The extra price for the other brands, buys you a name, same extra finishing time and fancy paint. It does not buy you a better bike.
I have a Curtlo frame and it has no weaknesses. I also own bikes made by Carl Strong, Cunningham, and Pegoretti.
The Curtlo is as good as any of them.
As to Marinoni, great bikes, great service and fast turnaround. They have a great, solid pedigree. Guissepe has been building bikes since the early '80's.