Looking for Wilier experts!
 

Hi! I recently bought a bike that I've been dreaming about for a long time: a Wilier Triestina ramato.

The seller couldn't tell me much about it, but I thought the bike looked looked totally amazing and convincing. He told me it was from 1985, which corresponds to the general look, geometry and type of steel used. But trying to find that exact model online has proven nearly impossible.

I just found one example on steel vintage bikes. They mention "1990s"…
I wrote to Wilier but they couldn't give me a precise answer on the model. The guy said it was from the late 80's but he couldn't know for sure. Sure enough, I bothered them a bit with my questions, and they replied as best as they could. But the mystery is not solved.

What puzzles me is:
1. I haven't seen Columbus SLX steel on any other Wilier online
2. No engravings whatsoever, where usually other bikes get either the logo or Wilier or Triestina pantographed
3. The lug at the seat tube / seat stays junction is very peculiar; the seat stays attach very far back to the frame – never seen it on another Wilier

All this led me to think it could not be a real one… OR, I hope that it is simply the fact that it is difficult to find info on those bikes

Also, i'm adding some pictures here

Thanks so much! Julien

https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...d69705b2c7.jpg

Yes, it's legitimate. I've seen another Willier SLX frame with all the same characteristics. However, if the Columbus decals on both frames are OEM, then they are no older than the 1988 model year.

Thank you very much!
I'm quite happy if the bike is from that era. I know that people are crazy about older models, but I prefer modern geometries and components – I intend to ride this bike (a bit)
What do you mean exactly by OEM Columbus decals? That they don't mention Wilier or something like that?
Thanks,
Julien

I think T-Mar means if they are original and not replacements. If they have been clear-coated then you can probably rest assured they are original to the frame and a clue to the approximate date as he says, but if they are on top of the finish there's a chance the originals flaked off (as often happens with unprotected Columbus decals) and a previous owner replaced them. At a fuzzy glance the bike looks to be in excellent condition so my bet is they are original decals. A real beauty and I'm sure you'll be pleased with this "copper" Wilier, give us a ride report!

Yes, that is a good point. As you said, given the condition of the bike, these should be the originals.
But it seems they've been placed on top of the coating… I'll check on other bikes.

And as you say as well, it is still a beauty – no matter it's history. I'll definetly write a few lines on the ride quality etc