Litespeed Solano help

[toolman605]

Hi,

I'm looking at buying this 2004 Litespeed Solano and I'd like some help evaluating this bike.

http://annarbor.craigslist.org/bik/2920957934.html

I don't really know very much about this brand or even Ti bikes in general. I've only been riding semi-seriously now for 4 years and this group combined has about a jillion years of expertise!
Its the right size for me and I'm not getting any younger and the aches and pains are getting worse so I think its time some something a little less racy than my current ride.
I've been able to find that this model was only made from 2004 - 2006 which seems strange to me. Its either very similar to or replaced the Tuscany.
Oh, and I have a major budget constraint from the boss that I only have $1,500 to spend and that can't be, "just a frame - I want to see a whole bike, frame, tires, wheels, handlebars, what ever"
So looking at this bike, it meets my criteria and is relatively local and other than the color scheme and mis-matched group whats the general consensus? I'm planning on going on a test ride this weekend so is there anything I should look at specifically in person?
Thanks!
Dave

[Vinci]

I currently own and ride a 2003 Tuscany, and it is the best-riding frame I've owned. If this is at all related, I doubt you'll be disappointed.

[cmg]

here's the link from bikepedia http://www.bikepedia.com/quickbike/BikeSpecs.aspx?Year=2004&Brand=Litespeed&Model=Solano&Type=bike the fact that it's constructed from 3Al/2.5V titanium makes the price attractive. Not going to find that level of Ti for that price. here's a link to a review http://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-gear/bikes-and-biking/road-bikes/123395608.html sounds like you should buy.

[Andrewlcox]

The curved seat stays are very similar to the Tuscany. To echo what Vinci said, it should be a great bike. I have ridden one (Tuscany) and they are nice.

Maybe its the same frame but they changed the name?

[vav]

Is the price firm? Offer 1500 and you may get it for 1550 or 1600.
But 1700 is still a fair price. A little bit of mismatched components but they are solid.
A similar bike breakdown:

F/F/HS: 800-1200
shifters: 200
crankset: 200
wheels with hutchinson: 3-400
carbon seatpost-fizik- 2 ti cages: 80-120

Already around 1700. If the fit is right, it could be the lastbike you ever buy

[Vinci]

Maybe its the same frame but they changed the name?
The seller's photos are pretty poor, but the tubes appear to be round. My Tuscany has a shaped downtube. The geometry might be the same, though.

[old_fat_and_slow]

...

[Ramjm_2000]

Actually 3Al/2.5V is the garden variety of Ti tubing for bikes. Not knocking it at all. I have 3Al/2.5V on my Ti bike. 6Al/4V is the stronger, possibly more desirable, variety. Both materials have very similar inherent stiffness. 6Al/4V is a little bit stronger, so the tubing can be slightly thinner if the manufacturer wants to shed weight, at the expense of stiffness. (Thinning the wall will make the cross-section less stiff.) 6Al/4V bikes are typically a little more expensive, than their 3Al/2.5V brethren.

Agree with everything except the more desirable part. I'd be fine with a full 3/2.5 bike, a bike with a 6/4 front tringle and 3/2.5 stays but will kindly pass on a full 6/4 frame.

[oliver1850]

Solano and Tuscany were both available in 2005. Tuscany had a taller profile down tube and cloverleaf shaped top tube, 31.6 seat tube. Solano's top tube is a less complex shape. Solano had a conventional head tube, Tuscany was integrated.

Colorado Cyclist sold the Solano in 2005 for $2995 with Ultegra and Real Design fork and wheelset.

[toolman605]

Wow!

Thanks for the quick responses everybody! Vav I especially like the rack-up of prices. I hadn't thought of adding up the value of the components vs. the selling price. I've read a little about ABG on here but I wasn't sure when they took over and the great demise started. its a shame what happened to Merlin.
I got the OK to go take a look on Saturday so if we can agree on a price it may be mine! Ah, that new bike smell!
Thanks again everybody!
Dave