Bike Forums - Raul Mesa

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I picked up this Colombian Raul Mesa bike recently from the local CL and thought it warranted a thread as there don't seem to be too many of them around (in the States anyway).

I believe it dates from the early '90's. Frame is Columbus SL with Campagnolo dropouts and Cinelli BB; very workmanlike construction - the lugs aren't exactly beautiful, but it does have some nice details, and the chrome seems excellent. I would say it's a very competent pure race bike. It tracks straight; turning is very agile; and it feels quite eager on hills (it is from Colombia after all, so let's hope so).

It came built up with mainly Tricolor parts, with DA 7400 shifters and Mavic/Fulcrum wheels that are too loud for my taste, graphics-wise. Also came wearing 23mm Rubino Pro tires. It's been a long while since I have ridden anything that skinny, but the ride is surprisingly good even so; not nearly as harsh as I expected.

Some pics:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4439/...37566395_c.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4412/...36147ee4_c.jpg Un
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4429/...899470f8_c.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4425/...edb7b54b_c.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4459/...079e7929_c.jpg

A bit more info:
Raul Mesa was a professional rider for a short time before becoming director of the Cafe de Colombia, and later, Postobón teams. He also built frames for the RDM team as well as his own brand. More here:
http://www.alpsandes.com/posts/clinginquisition.com/2012/07/postobon-other-colombian-team-part-1.html
Raul Mesa cyclery operates in Medellin.

That is one Sweet and Classic looking bike.
Campy drop outs, Cinelli BB, Chrome forks and drive side chainstay,front derailleur tab, pump peg,race proven geometry, what else could you want?
Ok maybe a matching group, maybe Campagnolo.

Quote:

Originally Posted by texaspandj (Post 19919786)

Thanks. I agree it’s a nice frame. Not sure what I will wind up doing with it. I wasn’t a huge fan of the build so it’s torn down and awaiting inspiration. Your idea is a good one but that kind of bike doesn’t match my riding style for the most part.

Get that out on the road. You will make Colombian friends.

Bikes get used very hard in Colombia. Mountain climbs that are hard to believe. Descents too. Not like rest of world. Main requirement is equipment that survives. All Campy sounds good to me but this is a clear case of anything goes.