Hello everyone. So, recently I've started an Eddy Merckx frame search and I'm trying to decide what year/frame is the best one to go after. Corsa Extra, Professional, etc. I've been trying to do as much research as possible on these beauties and have made some headway but I'd like to hear from the people who have ridden them. SL, SLX tubing, etc. I'm in no rush to buy one but if the "right one" pops up, I'll jump on it (only way it happens with these things). I'm a recreational rider who logs about 120-150 miles a week. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

I have an early '80's Professional. Built with SL I believe. Mix of Super Record and Nuovo Record. The bottom bracket is just as stiff (and maybe a little heavy) as it can be. Not the lightest bike I own, but it just feels so solid, especially going downhill. I like the old style graphics, the Merckx logo pantographing on the seat stays and the "Eddy" and "Merckx" pantographing on the flat fork crowns. I ride this bike a lot (took it out for about 50 miles yesterday) - it fits me well and just inspires confidence when I'm on it.

Very nice EM you got there.

Zeego,

You are going to love yours when you get it. You really can't go wrong with any vintage Merckx as long as it fits you. I would love to pick up a C-Record Corsa Extra one of these days. I saw a 753 CE frame recently on Ebay that looked SO nice, I shoulda bid on it. It went for what I thought was a very good price. Happy hunting!

Thanks!

Get one that fits, first of all. If you do longer rides, look for a Corsa or Corsa Extra, they have the Century geometry (unless they were custom). If you like a spirited, Italian style ride, get a Professional. Not much difference between SL and SLX. SL will be slightly lighter. My feeling on years is the earlier, the better. I would shoot for 1985 or earlier, but that shouldn't be a deciding factor.

Great! Thanks for your advice. I was initially shooting for that time period.

+1
I've got an '86 Extra Corsa in SL/SLX. Super smooth ride for the 60cm size. C-Record friction. Maybe not as racy as I had thought but very nice.

Early 80's. Flat-top crown and Columbus SL. MMMMMMM........

I'll let you know how I like the mid-2000's soon as my Team SC arrives (GET IT IN GEAR, FedEx!!!!) and I can put some miles on it.

SP
OC, OR

I just totally love my Corsa-01. I'm not sure if it's true or not but I was told that it is a very rare model and hard to come by. It is all you could ever want from a bike for sure!!!

Very nice!

One for sale here:
1985 merckx corsa extra - The Paceline Forum

Saw that one. I'd be all over it if was just the frame.

Ask him if he'll separate. I'm sure for a good offer he would.