Any info on Iride handmade Italian frames w/Columbus SL tubes?
 

Hi all,

New here, be gentle. Anyone know anything about Iride steel frames? There is a beautiful new lugged Columbus SL Niobum frameset hanging on the wall in my LBS. Best as I can tell these frames have only been available in the US for about 3 years, and I haven't been able to find any first hand accounts of their riding characteristics or craftsmanship. I'm not worried about the tubes, they should perform beautifully, but can anyone speak to the quality of the brazing, or the general riding characteristics?

The LBS is offering a nice discount over MSRP which, if it's a solid piece of workmanship, would mean a great deal compared to a Cinelli Supercorsa Pista or other steel frame using Columbus tubing. If anyone has ridden one of these or built one I would love to hear your thoughts. Thanks.

Here is the frame I'm looking at:
http://www.irideusa.com/frame.html

Without knowing the angles, I'd guess it rides like a lugged, SL tubed frame- smooth, comfortable, and maybe a little flexy around the BB if you're used to an aluminum bike.

The lugs look crisp, seems like if it had a different name on it, it'd be twice the price.

That's not bad for $1500.

My paramount is made out of this tubeset. Can confirm.
Very light as well, as far as steel framesets go.

Ooh investment cast lugs too. :)

I'm put off by the fact that they have an "add to cart" button with no visible prices. (looks like roughly $1500 American once you put it in cart)

I'm put off by the fact that it's red.

Provided it fits, it'll be a good frame. Worthy of some good components and lots of TLC when you get her.

Thanks for the feedback, gang. Sounds like a good investment.

I was being a little coy, however. I actually picked up the frame back in the fall when they put it on sale. Have been building it up over the winter. All that's left is the brake cable and she's done. Pics to follow...