Originally Posted by bikebean
Hey,
I am buying a new bike; was thinking I might wanna make the leap into Ti, but very entry-level Ti, and it looks like the starting point might be a litespeed Firenze.
I posted previously about possibly buying a Fondriest; sounds like both bikes'll end up being similar in cost tho' maybe the litespeed ti will be a bit less of a harsh ride (riding 192 mi in 2 days in Aug). I like the fast and quickness of the Fondriest, but yeah, it's a racing bike and so it's a little stiff. But, I may be willing to trade off the stiffness if I can't find anything better. Maybe the Ti bike will give me that combination of all that I am looking for? I'm on a search for it now at various LBS - - I may not even be able to find it, but thought it would be interesting to hear from some of you who currently ride Litespeed and/or Fondriest.
Thanks.
I can only speak for myself, but on long rides I don't feel Aluminum is the way to go. I presently have a 2002 Lemond Zurich which is a very sweet ride and smooth. I used to have a Aluminum bike and after a 60 or 70 mile ride I felt like someone beat me, but on the Zurich I never feel that way and ride it 50+ very often.
I recently ordered a Litespeed Solano, because it has a ride like steel only stiffer and more responsive. I don't plan on getting rid of my Zurich though and will ride both depending on the ride. If your going to ride 90 plus miles in 2 days and will be doing a lot of long rides preparing yourself I would get either a quality steel or Ti or possibly a carbon bike. A good Ti or Steel bike will last you a lifetime, but the verdict on carbon frames as far as longevity is still out, but it is a very smooth ride as well.
Just my 2cents worth,
Philli