Hi all, first post here.
Currently riding orange Redline 925 (2008 I guess?) in San Francisco. 44/17 fixed (switching to 44/15), 56cm.
I'm 6', 185 lbs, riding street for commuting + weekend rides along the Marina/Embarcadero/GG Bridge/GGP. Sometimes testing myself against some uphills.
My bike is around 23 lbs overall weight, would love to keep the weight as low as possible (SF is hilly, you know).
Looking for more aggressive steel frame which would be distinct from masses. The ultimate goal is to dust carbon roadies in FiDi in style
Currently considering (without attachment to the price):
- Factory Five Pista, flamed - really like this one, even considering $75 for delivery. Will buy their lattice + omnium combo then.
- Wabi Lightning SE
- Cinelli Gazzetta
- Affinity Metropolitan
- Pake Rum Runner - seems like hard to find at the moment - SomaFab site has black only frames. Kinda boring frame, no?
- Soma Rush (lettering on the frame pisses me off, as overall SOMA visual design, so would love to remove decals if possible. Or may slap on some stickers)
- EAI bareknuckle - an icon, but hate the colors
- Bianchi Chrome Pista (boring?)
Looking for some comparison to 2008 Redline 925 frame (not enough geo/weight info online unfortunately). What would be the best upgrade from this frame?
I also like pursuits, like Affinity Lo Pro but thinking it would be an overkill for my purpose. And they seem to be heavy in steel. Thoughts?
Additional questions:
1. Does carbon fork add up anything to my pattern of use?
2. Should I consider switching from ThickSlick 25c to 23c (SF streets)? These are skidded/dying soon (I skid occasionally)
3. Riding Velocity Deep V 32h + DT swiss on All-City hubs. Have some thoughts on either: a) Mavic Ellipse wheelset b) H+Son SL42 (back), archetype or TB14 (front) on Formula/Novatec/Gran Compe (probably with Phil Wood bearings). Cons/pros of each wheelset?
4. I feel like bullhorns would be the best bet for uphill climbing - am I wrong?
Some questions/statements may be stupid - apologize in advance, will be happy to provide more details and clarify.