Originally Posted by
ilikebikes
1. What grade of steel is that?
2. Forged fork ends? OK. Make for a much nicer ride. I dont know why? but they do
look sharp!
3. You'll also see fewer Madisons.
4. carbon forks on a steel frame? not a good idea if you ask me BUT! it does make it lighter.
5. Madison comes with front and rear brakes.
6. Madison comes with fixed cog and freewheel.
7. Madison comes with more practical handlebars with hoods - essentially giving you drop bars and bullhorns.
8. I feel the seat on the Madison looks much nicer.
I wasn't trying to put down the Madison. I've never ridden one, but they do seem like really nice bikes. As for your questions:
1. Reynolds 631 over regular 4130 chromoly (which is not a bad steel).
2. Forging will make the fork ends harder, more malleable and less brittle.
3. Probably true, I've only seen one Madison around here.
4. I'm not really sure why it's not a good idea, but it does make it lighter and provides a smoother ride.
5-7. Good call. I was thinking of the Steamroller (also a really good bike), mostly.
8. To some, I like how both look.