Macalu Titanium Frame
 

Anyone have experience and/or an educated opinion on these frames? I'm seeing them at a good price-so I'm a bit suspicious.

Pictures, specifications, website?

Excel Bikes buys them off the line from Merlin / Litespeed. The only thing you are missing is the name (and possibly whatever things might go along with that: ego, warranty, Q.C.). They're really good, and yes are a tremendous value. I'm not sure why anyone would buy the comparable Litespeed model, in fact. Obviously there is no Macalu version of the Ghisallo, Vortex, etc - but they are mid-range LS/Merlin bikes. I am unsure of the direct lineup but if you're curious I can probably find out..

My understanding is that the Macalu titanium frames are re-badged Litespeed Arenberg frames. This used to be the cheapest Litespeed frame, but has since been replaced by the Firenze. Litespeed got a lot of complaints that the Arenberg was too flexy, especially in the larger sizes. The Firenze corrects this by beefing up the downtube.

If the word on these frames was overwhelmingly positive I might go for it. 'Too flexy' is cause to reconsider. Even though they're under 1000, it's too much of a risk to buy unseen (in person) and untested.

Thanks for the input!