Originally Posted by
randyjawa
It is not the brand that makes the bicycle, in my opinion. It is the choice or material, the choice of geometry and the quality of workmanship that differentiates a quality bicycle from a lower end one. Take the time to learn about
Vintage Bicycle Quality and you might be better prepared to make an educated choice when it comes time to purchase.
Also, you and only you can determine what
you want the bicycle for. If racing, buy a racing bicycle. If touring, buy a touring bicycle. I just trying to impress others, paint any bicycle red.
I used to lust for Bianchi, Cinelli, Raleigh and so on, until I found the best riding bicycle, for me...
+100
To you...what makes Columbine, De Rosa, Dressens your favorite brands? Have you ridden them and love them?
Like Randy, I used to lust for several brands...until I found bikes that really fit my riding...now those are the ones that I ride the most (Miyata 1000, Tommasini Super Prestige, Pinarello Surprise)...and they are for different styles of riding...the 1000 is a touring bike, use it on very long rides (although the Pinarello has also done some 60+ milers)...the Tommasini is my "go fast" bike...
I have recently added a Colnago Super to my stable...and, as I ride it, it may become my "fourth"...and, in particular, be my "super go-fast"
The common thread here...RIDE...sometimes, to some people, even very low end bikes are their favorites. My son has ridden most of my high end bikes...and he still prefers his 1972 Schwinn Super Sport as his favorite road bike, although he does enjoy riding my 1980 Raleigh Super Course...
Of the brands you listed, I only have ridden the Colnago (and, of course, it also depends on tubing, model, gearing, lots of things)...and am in the market to add a De Rosa to my stable...