OldPX10

I just purchased a mid 80's red and white Botteccia made with Columbus SPX tubing. The SPX is better for me because I am a big guy (240lbs) and even though I wanted SLX because it is lighter I opted for the stronger (and heavier) frame. Before I start putting money into the restoration project, I would like to hear some opinions as to the quality of this frame. I've seen a lot of ditching of the brand in the later years but not much on the mid 80's bikes. I have considered just selling this frame in favor of a DeRosa or a Tommasini for my restoration project but I really like the looks of this frame. Any opinions from owners of this bike or someone who knows about them?

Gary Fountain

I'd stick with the Botteccia. I've seen them in red and white and they do look 'the goods'. I remember reading a British article on one just like yours from around 1990 and it has stuck in my memory. I think the SPX tubing builds into a frame that, as a big guy, gives you added confidence out on a ride. I think the Columbus SLX/SPX frames of that era are the pinnacle of frame materials and they are still very nice to ride today. I have one bike built with SPX and, really, I can't tell the difference but it's a very responsive frame due to the build geometry.

I can't argue about the 'need' for a DeRosa or Tommasini but I think you have a frame that is just as desirable and a little less common.

DOS

So lots of threads about Columbus tubes on BF. To sum up: SL and SLX are same except SLX is a little heavier and stiffer because ends of tubes are reinforced with ribs. SP ans SPX are same except SPX is a little heavier and stiffer because ends of tubes are reinforced with ribs. SP and and SL are same except SP tubes are little thicker and stiffer. SLX and SPX are same except SPX tubes are a little thicker and stiffer. Frames with SLX are going to be a little stiffer and a little heavier (because of the ribs) than frames with just SL. Frames with a mix of SL and SP are going to be a little stiffer (because SP dt is thicker than SLX) and a tad heavier (mostly because they are bigger) than SLX. SPX frames will be a tad heavier and a tad stiffer, because of tube thickness, than the others. All are made of high quality steel (same alloy) and for a 240 LBS rider, SPX will make a very nice frame while SLX might be a bit flexy.

Edited to add: Frame quality is mostly about the builder, and I have no clue who among the three frame builders you mentioned had the best builders.

T-Mar

It impossible for us to know your preferences and relate them to ours. I could tell you it's my favourite or I could tell you it's my least favourite. It really doesn't make a difference. You'll just have to build it up and decide for yourslf. Don't worry about sinking the money into components as you can just use them on that De Rosa or Tommasini, in the event you don't like the Bottecchia.

OldPX10

It's more about the quality of the build than personal preferance. I would like to know if these frames were put together by frame builders who did their work on a level comparable to the other great Italian frames or if the build is just so-so. I am interested in quality craftsmanship as well as a great ride.

T-Mar

The metal work is very good, the finish is pure bling but the execution isn't up to the metal work. However, from two feet, most aren't going to notice any issues.

OldPX10

Thanks T-Mar, thats the type of info I'm looking for. I know Columbus tubing is first rate but I am just don't know about the assembly process. The bling finish on the frame doesn't matter if the frame itself was assembled by a bunch of guys in a sub standard fashion. My father was a blacksmith and he taught me a lot about metal and working with metal. There is more to it than just slapping some tubes in lugs, doing a quick braze job and then covering it all up with bling.

T-Mar

Yes, it all comes down to the skill of the brazer. However, it's all hidden and anyone can have a bad day, even the best. You'll never know, until several years down the road. Unfortunately, we have to rely on the Law of Averages, except in the most gross cases.

Giacomo 1 

Although it doesn't say it anywhere, I believe you have what most consider to be the Bottecchia Professional model.

I think it is the most beautiful of all the Bottecchia's I've ever seen, and I believe it is a very sought after model to. It's definitely a high end Bot for sure. I have never seen one up close, so I can't really talk about the level of craftsmanship involved, but I've never heard an owner complain, and they really look beautiful and well made to me. Ride reports are very good as well.

Check out this thread to see one of the most beautiful Bot's on this forum. Scroll down abit to see the red and white one -

https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...a+professional

Do you have any pics?

OldPX10

I'll wait until I get further along to post any pics.