Your Top 5 Bikes of 2017

[Clean39T]

((Meant to post this in General - please move when you have a chance - thanks!))

For those who are fortunate enough to have five or more in your garage, or to have had five or more pass through your garage this year, what were your favorites, and why? Or for those disciplined enough to be at N=1 (2, 3, or 4), which one took the cake, and/or why did it keep your eyes from wandering?

Here are mine:

(1) 2015 Pegoretti Marcelo: it was as good as everyone said it would be, especially when decked out with DA9100 and Belgium+ handbuilts...I've never ridden a bike that felt better on the back end. Alas, it had the headtube of a 61cm Spesh Roubaix, and I just couldn't bring myself to take a chance at effin up the whole package by cutting it down. If I was sure a Bixxis or Stelbel would ride like this, it'd be my next buy. Just haven't gotten there yet, and still feel like I'm dialing in my preferred geometry beyond just contact points - things like wheelbase, BB drop, trail, etc.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171009/79d1b556f459f62c4ffe3c732eacf386.jpg

(2) 2000s Serotta Legend Ti: only slightly a step behind the Pegoretti just because I really liked the paint on the Peg, but when it comes to ride quality, both were equally amazing...springy, efficient, solid, stable...just everything you want in a bike. Unfortunately it was also a tad too tall up front (though if I had the chance to buy it back, I would in heartbeat).

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170621/1237f0f7cb0391bc6a432b16468f6c77.jpg

(3) 2014 Kestrel Legend SL: this one really surprised me...I mean, its a bike that can (could) be bought off Amazon.com...could it really ride that well? The answer was a resounding "yes". It's long/low geometry worked for me and everything hummed out of the box, other than the Oval house-brand bits. But vanity got the better of me. If I could get one without decals, I'd be happy to have it. The carbon layup was great, just not the screened on logos.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170524/3febfc5f51c407e8824cc3368bd65c77.jpg

(4) 2011 Moots Compact / 2000s Davidson Ti: these two were simply perfect examples of beautifully executed titanium road bikes...smooth, lively, and masterfully built with impeccable welds and attention to detail. And yet neither felt just-right enough for me to keep them above other options.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170702/a6a9d2fcb5e8419894f795f3fabae76f.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171218/336631812e8c28b7bf8f17f816caf199.jpg

(5) 2005 Merlin Works 6/4 CR Ti: this is the highest performance titanium bike I've ridden to date...the stiffness and efficiency was crazy, and yet it still soaked up sharp bumps. Tire and rim clearance was an issue though. And I'm between a 59 and 61 in Merlin's geometry. I don't think these tubes are even available anymore though. Based on this one, I'm really curious how a performance-built Spectrum would ride.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170827/b211093bd0c414accc7a728ff936db9b.jpg

Of course, I don't have any of these - just the fond memories - and the happiness that they are each now under someone else that they fit better...

I guess there's still a few days for me to bump one of these in favor of my new-to-me Emonda SLR :eek: - we'll see what the weather does Sunday :rolleyes:

[mhespenheide]

I only have three road bikes, so I'll refrain from playing, but...

Pick up another Kestrel and take the branding off with some CarboLift. :p

(I'm semi-serious; I stripped the branding off a Sram carbon crank and am happier for it, after finishing the work to get it done. Or mail it to CycloCarbon and have them strip it for you.)

[jamesdak]

Ok, I'll play:

First is the 87 Schwinn Circuit built up with a Campagnolo 11 speed Athena groupset. This was my go to when chasing the local Strava short sprint segments since I can get my best top sprint speed out of this one for some reason.

http://www.pbase.com/jhuddle/image/164992518.jpg

Next is the Greg Lemond Maillot Jaune - Comfortable, fast on long rides, responds so well to input.

http://www.pbase.com/jhuddle/image/166138354.jpg

Then I've got to say this early 90s prototype Schwinn PDG Series Paramount. It just fast, climbs well, and now since I've sorted it out pretty comfortable to ride. The stiff frame makes it a surprisingly good climber too despite the weight.

http://www.pbase.com/jhuddle/image/166081196.jpg

Then there's the De Rosa Nuovo Classico I had built up with 11 speed Chorus late this year. Not many good rides on it yet as I got it done as the fall winds kicked in. But no doubt this is one heck of a bike.

http://www.pbase.com/jhuddle/image/166363859.jpg

And finally, the best bike of all the 20 some I rode this year. For whatever reason this one is pure sex under me each time I take it out. It may not have a single PR for me but does everything so well and it the one I feel most connected with. It's a mid 90s Giordana XL Super sporting Athena 11 speed and some Shamal wheels.

http://www.pbase.com/jhuddle/image/164621709.jpg

[Clean39T]

I only have three road bikes, so I'll refrain from playing, but...



Pick up another Kestrel and take the branding off with some CarboLift. :p



(I'm semi-serious; I stripped the branding off a Sram carbon crank and am happier for it, after finishing the work to get it done. Or mail it to CycloCarbon and have them strip it for you.)



Maybe I’ll keep an eye peeled for one then...

And you can play with N=3.

Which is your favorite or got the most miles, and why? Is there one you considered letting go?

[bob heinatz]

Owned a Peg and Moots both excellent bikes however I now have a Spectrum Ti and it is now my favorite bike.

[weisan]

clean pal, thanks for creating this thread. Quite honestly, I am kinda burned out from my own "In celebration of..." threads so I will make it short and sweet by just saying this. The bike that most amazes me as an "overall package" is the Rivendell Road Standard (https://forums.thepaceline.net/showthread.php?t=196345). At first glance, it may not look it. In fact, if you have a tendency to judge a book (bike) by its cover (weight), then you will most certainly overlook it. As they say, the real test is in the pudding. As soon as you are able to put a leg over and ride it, the whole world opens up and shows you what an amazing bike it is. I don't flip any of my bikes any more. Used to. Now, I have pretty much figured out what I am looking for and usually just wait patiently for one to show up and grab it, so I am less likely to miss my target.

http://alicehui.com/bike/rivendell/11.jpg

[beeatnik]

Maybe I’ll keep an eye peeled for one then...

And you can play with N=3.

Which is your favorite or got the most miles, and why? Is there one you considered letting go?

Clean, you should have kept the Moots just out of vanity. It may be the most aesthetically balanced bike you'll ever ride.

My Top 5

C59

Also rode a C60 a lot and it was a better race bike than the C59 at the expense of some (maybe a lot) Colnago DNA. My CAAD12 was stiffer and more "compliant" than my CAAD10 but we haven't bonded as much as I'd like. And then there was the Salsa Pistola. At first I thought it was perfect, then I realized I may need a "modern" steel bike again (thing is I already have one and it's the C59).

[sandyrs]

I love that your top five was actually a top six. Grow a couple cm so I can buy your castoffs!

[joosttx]

One is in my garage and two are not but I think they are going in the right direction in terms of innovation:


1) Festka One Classic. All the stuff a modern CF bike should be with all the classic aesthetics of bikes of yore. 1 1/8 headtube, threaded BB, level top tube, fillet-like construction.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4379/36801199171_4e21101ba6_b.jpg

2) Baum Orbis Disc. Ti Bike with crazy chainstays and incredible wells. T47 BB makes room to route the rear brake hose inside the tubes along with the chainstays are my favorite touches. Also it'll accept a 33mm tire.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4249/35167199072_9abd509ec4_b.jpg

Where's the brake hose???
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4202/35294022566_eb408372b9_b.jpg


3) 44 Ti Maurader: This is designed to take 27+ or 29 wheels with correct chain line. Bomber bike with simple elegance.

Pictured it is set up as a single speed
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4566/38240977442_1bdd92b498_b.jpg

here it is a geared 27+ bike
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4539/26475189499_db4324bee3_b.jpg

[thegunner]

sad that darren's personal bike got jacked, anyone know if he got it back?

[beeatnik]

Darren from Bewitched?

[joosttx]

sad that darren's personal bike got jacked, anyone know if he got it back?

Not Sure.

[jtbadge]

These are the bikes I acquired this year. I've got a rigid steel MTB (All-City Log Lady) and an MX Leader in the shed also.

Moving to LA soon, guess I need to build up a flat bar cross bike to be on trend.

3. Cannondale CAAD10

This bike was great. Sold me on aluminum road frames. Unfortunately, I bought a 56 instead of a 58, so the fit was never right. The drop was too aggressive to ride more than a couple of hours. Would definitely buy another CAAD.

https://www.pedalroom.com/p/cannondale-caad10-32766_6.jpg

2. All-City Macho Man canti cross

Sold out of the single speed life, replaced a Nature Boy Zona with this geared frame featuring identical geometry. Now wears a black cockpit. Meaty tires let me ride this pretty much wherever I like.

https://www.pedalroom.com/p/all-city-macho-man-33505_4.jpg

1. Rock Lobster AL road

After selling the CAAD, found this frame that fit better - just a few mm longer and taller. Handling is incredible. Simply the best road bike I've ever ridden.

https://www.pedalroom.com/p/rock-lobster-team-al-road-33845_7.jpg

[Mzilliox]

I will post my favorite 5 of the forum i saw in 2017

Marins Heretic:
https://fstatic1.mtb-news.de/v3/22/2204/2204302-kbtw42v3seos-cl2_11-large.jpg

Weigle Concours machine:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4338/36313513226_9f79d14b93_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XjUfkC)Concours de Machines 2017 entry (https://flic.kr/p/XjUfkC) by peter (https://www.flickr.com/photos/49353569@N00/), on Flickr

These cool bikes from Tomii
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4505/23741052278_c87f5882d5_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CaV6Hy)CANVAS Cucumber Green / Size 50. (https://flic.kr/p/CaV6Hy) by Nao Tomii (https://www.flickr.com/photos/3rrrproducts/), on Flickr

This Bishop:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4693/38492198054_5192750e60_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21Dqzr9)Philly Bike Expo Bishop Bicycles-3 (https://flic.kr/p/21Dqzr9) by Chris Bishop (https://www.flickr.com/photos/bishopbikes/), on Flickr

And my Lavecaise Travel 650b machine:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4449/37003468904_28d6b98ea8_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YnSs8b)Lavcaise travel (https://flic.kr/p/YnSs8b) by Matt.zilliox (https://www.flickr.com/photos/41573599@N06/), on Flickr

[weisan]

Mz pal, I like your approach.

[rccardr]

Built a net of five additional new keeper bikes this year, plus one returnee:

'88 Schwinn Voyageur 650B Do-All- Go-Anywhere Machine:
http://i797.photobucket.com/albums/yy254/rccardr/Voyageur%20650B%20project/650B%20Voyageur%20Project%20first%20build%20comple te/650b%20Voy%20right%20side_zpshu5jd1zp.jpg (http://s797.photobucket.com/user/rccardr/media/Voyageur%20650B%20project/650B%20Voyageur%20Project%20first%20build%20comple te/650b%20Voy%20right%20side_zpshu5jd1zp.jpg.html)

'83 Colnago Supermissimo built up with NOS Dura Ace 7402:
http://i797.photobucket.com/albums/yy254/rccardr/83%20Colnago%20Superissimo/Colnago%20blue%20right%20side_zpskznoxva8.jpg (http://s797.photobucket.com/user/rccardr/media/83%20Colnago%20Superissimo/Colnago%20blue%20right%20side_zpskznoxva8.jpg.html )

'87 Schwinn Prologue, with Shimano 7 speed 1051:
http://i797.photobucket.com/albums/yy254/rccardr/87%20Schwinn%20Prologue%202017/87%20Prologue%20red%202017%20right%20side_zpswyhbk fsp.jpg (http://s797.photobucket.com/user/rccardr/media/87%20Schwinn%20Prologue%202017/87%20Prologue%20red%202017%20right%20side_zpswyhbk fsp.jpg.html)

'88 Bottecchia Team record, with a mix of Dura Ace 7700 and light action shifters, with Record hubs and a 7 speed Sachs freewheel:
http://i797.photobucket.com/albums/yy254/rccardr/88%20Bottecchia%20Record/PC205085_zpsxa3odgnk.jpg (http://s797.photobucket.com/user/rccardr/media/88%20Bottecchia%20Record/PC205085_zpsxa3odgnk.jpg.html)

'86 Centurion Ironman, total time capsule, Shimano 6208:
http://i797.photobucket.com/albums/yy254/rccardr/86%20Centurion%20ironman%20gray%202017/PC205072_zpsww6eblmk.jpg (http://s797.photobucket.com/user/rccardr/media/86%20Centurion%20ironman%20gray%202017/PC205072_zpsww6eblmk.jpg.html)

And the returnee, my '89 Merckx Century, traded off to OP a couple years ago and then repurchased, set up with a mix of Tricolor and Deore:
http://i797.photobucket.com/albums/yy254/rccardr/Merckx%20Century%20Cobalto/Merckx%20Century%202017%20build/Merckx%20Century%20blue%202017%20right%20side_zpso 5zxuulv.jpg (http://s797.photobucket.com/user/rccardr/media/Merckx%20Century%20Cobalto/Merckx%20Century%202017%20build/Merckx%20Century%20blue%202017%20right%20side_zpso 5zxuulv.jpg.html)

Did pick up one more that was finalized a few nights ago, but will post on that in 2018. Best to all!

[rallizes]

Clean, you should have kept the Moots just out of vanity. It may be the most aesthetically balanced bike you'll ever ride.

My Top 5

C59

Also rode a C60 a lot and it was a better race bike than the C59 at the expense of some (maybe a lot) Colnago DNA. My CAAD12 was stiffer and more "compliant" than my CAAD10 but we haven't bonded as much as I'd like. And then there was the Salsa Pistola. At first I thought it was perfect, then I realized I may need a "modern" steel bike again (thing is I already have one and it's the C59).

Can you say more about this?

[Bonesbrigade]

My English has been such an amazing addition to my riding options this year. It has allowed me to hit a wide variety of terrain within single rides.

[henrypretz]

I can't quit going back to look at this one .... about my size, too :p

I will post my favorite 5 of the forum i saw in 2017


These cool bikes from Tomii
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4505/23741052278_c87f5882d5_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CaV6Hy)CANVAS Cucumber Green / Size 50. (https://flic.kr/p/CaV6Hy) by Nao Tomii (https://www.flickr.com/photos/3rrrproducts/), on Flickr

[Bonesbrigade]

And in 700 mode.

[Hilltopperny]

I will play sans pics. I went through a restructuring this year and moved some pretty amazing bikes. I added a couple of mountain bikes to the fold and went with titanium and stainless as my materials of choice by years end.


1. Pegoretti Responsorium is my first choice. This bike is responsive and lively while remaining smooth. It is my go to road bike and makes for an enjoyable ride every time I throw a leg over it. I find myself with a grin whenever I get the chance to take it out for a few hours.

2. Parlee chebacco is my second choice. This bike is everything a bike should be. It can bomb through dirt and gravel roads with ease and is no slouch on the asphalt either. I purchased it second hand and the frame was a bit too small, but if it had been a medium I'd have more than likely kept it. It is a quiver killer and the nicest riding carbon bike I've ever ridden.

3. Lynskey pro 29 is my third choice. I spent a lot of time in my youth riding mountain bikes and so I decided to build up a rigid 29er to use as a trail bike. The lynskey is fast, light for a mtb and a joy to ride. The bike is just plain fun and takes me back to when we used to bomb around in the woods across the street from my childhood home. This leaves me with an ear to ear grin.

4.Pegoretti Mxxxxxo is my fourth pick. This is a bike that I think everybody should give a try. It just transfers power into instant forward motion. Great bike for a heavier rider who wants to go fast. I found that it didn't ever feel soft in the rear when climbing and that every pedal stroke was rewarded with forward motion.

5.Moots Vamoots is my fifth pick. This bike was an amazing all around ride. I understand why people rave about these bikes. From the construction to the ride this bike is hard to beat. It is smooth and responsive with a wonderful road feel. The one I picked up was a 55cm and I really needed a 54. Had the bike been a bit better fit I'd have more than likely kept it.

I now only own the Respo and pro 29 from this list. I have built up a lynskey R240 disc, a R350 that will be built up once the headset arrives and am awaiting a no22 once they receive the 8020 stuff and wheels for the build.

[jamesdak]

'87 Schwinn Prologue, with Shimano 7 speed 1051:
http://i797.photobucket.com/albums/yy254/rccardr/87%20Schwinn%20Prologue%202017/87%20Prologue%20red%202017%20right%20side_zpswyhbk fsp.jpg (http://s797.photobucket.com/user/rccardr/media/87%20Schwinn%20Prologue%202017/87%20Prologue%20red%202017%20right%20side_zpswyhbk fsp.jpg.html)


Dang, never saw this one before that I can remember. What are the red wheels? I'm still planning on upgrading my Prologue and those wheels are totally sweet looking on yours! I want to steal that look! ;)

[Mzilliox]

I can't quit going back to look at this one .... about my size, too :p

Right? why dont we see more of these? Im tempted to try one. I think its his solution to a "stock" bike option, and its very sensible.

[AngryScientist]

Right? why dont we see more of these? Im tempted to try one. I think its his solution to a "stock" bike option, and its very sensible.

super sensible.

three extra braze-ons for a really really great looking rear rack that could be on and off in seconds. i would LOVE to have that option on a few bikes, perfectly executed IMO.

[Mzilliox]

And in 700 mode.

Holy hot bike batman!

[beeatnik]

Can you say more about this?

If I close my eyes when riding the C59, I feel as if I'm riding a C40. The C60 rides as a modern carbon bike, stiffer at the front end and BB than the C59. In terms of descending and handling, they're both as "stable" as my early 90's Master.

In short, the C59 has more personality than the C60.

[Bonesbrigade]

Holy hot bike batman!

Thanks - this build was the culmination of years of experimenting with different elements on other bikes and putting it all together for what works for me on the terrain I ride and race on. It has actually exceeded my expectations - which is hard to do for us bike nerds!

[tv_vt]

Since I have six bikes, they all get to be on the list.

Competing for top honors are a Hampsten Gran Paradiso ti built for me, and a new acquisition, a Serotta HSG carbon Di2. Don't know much about the geo of the HSG, but it fits and rides great. The GP is an N=1 kind of bike.

Then a Look 585 Optimum and a Hampsten Strada Bianca ti S&S built for me. Both great bikes, don't get used quite as much. A bit more specialized in some ways. Both together would be a great pair of bikes for an N=2 setup. The SB has been on 3 great col-bagging trips, too.

Then a tried and true Serotta Fierte IT that I've had since 2009 and has more miles than any of the other bikes to date. It is amazingly solid. Just a great performer.

Then a one of a kind steel bike that started out as a Jamis Aurora, then got a custom Anderson steel fork, a Winter Cycles custom stem, and a new powdercoat finish. Takes big tires, sports PDW full metal fenders, and is a great winter bike. Even though it doesn't get ridden a lot, it is unique in the collection so will stick around for a long time.

Other than maybe a Pegoretti or some other steel frame like a Hampsten or Zanc, not much interests me these days as far as new frames.

[FlashUNC]

Just one really defined the year, the Lobster with eTap. Totally killer ride.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4738/27634287119_6a75f1bfe9_b.jpg

My Giant TCX Advanced is a killer cross/groad bike, but just gave me some confirmation that groad ain't my thing.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/670/33071816456_b04dc10cd7_b.jpg

[montag]

Just one really defined the year, the Lobster with eTap. Totally killer ride.


That Lobster is one of my favorite bikes on this forum.

[Mzilliox]

That Lobster is one of my favorite bikes on this forum.

agreed!

[rccardr]

Jamesdak, they are late 80's Mavic CXP33's..at least I think they came out in the late 80's. Might be 90's.

I laced them up to some original 1051 7 speed UG freehub hubs, and was lucky that the red on the frame, the rims, the bar tape and the cages matched closely.

Now wears a Fizik Arione saddle but otherwise the same, about 600 miles later.

[fogrider]

Just one really defined the year, the Lobster with eTap. Totally killer ride.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4738/27634287119_6a75f1bfe9_b.jpg

My Giant TCX Advanced is a killer cross/groad bike, but just gave me some confirmation that groad ain't my thing.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/670/33071816456_b04dc10cd7_b.jpgLove for the Lobster!!! I have a one (scandium version) from a few years back and it will be rebuilt in 2018. Awesome ride!

Sent from my Moto G (5) Plus using Tapatalk

[msl819]

That Lobster is one of my favorite bikes on this forum.

Mine too.

[Clean39T]

20mi in on my Emonda SLR and it might be taking the top of the podium. I’ve never ridden a bike that felt this fast and efficient. And eTap is dope!

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171231/1735f091cc63e889715872344cea61d6.jpg

[Mikej]

The Baum- lock this thread

[choke]

Built a net of five additional new keeper bikes this year, plus one returnee:

Did pick up one more that was finalized a few nights ago, but will post on that in 2018. Best to all!I love that every one of these has downtube shifters. Well done Doc. :banana:

[Imaking20]

In short, the C59 has more personality than the C60.

fact

The Baum- lock this thread

and fact

[cadence90]

The Baum- lock this thread

The stays and "squircle" dropouts look incredible.
The paint job just looks incredibly garish and bad.
.
.

[Mikej]

The stays and "squircle" dropouts look incredible.
The paint job just looks incredibly garish and bad.
.
.

Like a lime green Lambo!

[joosttx]

The stays and "squircle" dropouts look incredible.
The paint job just looks incredibly garish and bad.
.
.

fix it for you :)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4534/25195342408_7e265730fa_b.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4589/24201183497_da80858d16_b.jpg

[cadence90]

Like a lime green Lambo!

Yes, another abominable desecration.

Both the CrazyBaum and the GreenHornetLambo should be given tickets, by the ITA police...;)

https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?id=OIP.UarIzBiPIK2g0n6RVpnFGQEsCF&pid=Api


fix it for you :)
And I'll fix your fix! :)

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4686/25195634778_73a4980e99.jpg

This color, in Orbis, paired with your red Festka...wow.
.
.

[joosttx]

Yes, another abominable desecration.

Both the CrazyBaum and the GreenHornetLambo should be given tickets, by the ITA police...;)

https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?id=OIP.UarIzBiPIK2g0n6RVpnFGQEsCF&pid=Api



And I'll fix your fix! :)

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4686/25195634778_73a4980e99.jpg

This color, in Orbis, paired with your red Festka...wow.
.
.

I think I have seen that one in person. At least I seen that paint job on another Baum in person. Its super sweet.

[choke]

The stays and "squircle" dropouts look incredible.
The paint job just looks incredibly garish and bad.That's actually one of the few Baum paint jobs that I like...(insert old saying about taste). The bikes themselves though....I'm sure they're well made and ride great but they do absolutely nothing for me.

[joosttx]

That's actually one of the few Baum paint jobs that I like...(insert old saying about taste). The bikes themselves though....I'm sure they're well made and ride great but they do absolutely nothing for me.

its my favorite paint job too. I do like the solid colored paint jobs too. But I am a firm believer that no paint should touch titanium.

[cadence90]

I think I have seen that one in person. At least I seen that paint job on another Baum in person. Its super sweet.
You're relatively near Above Category, right?
There may be a dealer in the LA area, but I don't recall having seen a Baum irl.

its my favorite paint job too. I do like the solid colored paint jobs too. But I am a firm believer that no paint should touch titanium.
Esatto.

I'm even less a fan of color-anodized-ti..
.

[joosttx]

You're relatively near Above Category, right?
There may be a dealer in the LA area, but I don't recall having seen a Baum irl.


Esatto.

I'm even less a fan of color-anodized-ti..
.

Yes, I live near them. And I have been told they are the North American Dealer / Distributor / Retailer for Baum. I am not sure how many steps there are or what.

[nobuseri]

Add me to the “sans pics” group. Had a few frames, but don’t have time to list them all. These are the first to bubble to the top.

Peg Responsorium. Std 62 geo, custom solid paint. Built with SR. Very nice ride. All day comfort and the (seems to be hated?) head tube allows for no spacers/slammed look. Of course, fitted with non compact bars and set back post.

‘12 Cervelo R5 VWD. Was my race bike this season. Light, stiff and a nice ride. Not really a fan of the sloping top tubes, but Cervelos, as many as I have had, seem to always hold a place in my stable. This was my low buck brawler. Bullt with Force 22, Quarq; 15.5lbs for a 61.

‘16 Cervelo R5. Rode pretty much like the VWD with greater tire clearance and a more preferred pint job. Red 22, 15.1 lbs.

Recently went back to Cannondale in prep for next year’s race season. Hi-mod ‘16 Evo, Force 22; 63cm. Of the older Evos and CAAD framesets I rode, this is the smoothest so far. Should be a fun, upcoming season.

Used to have a Holland Ti; sold to Clean39t. That one was a nice ride. Level top tube and had a good fit. Rode very well with an ENVE fork.

Up for next year will be a couple new ones to try out. This includes a custom frame being made by Barco at the moment (via Blacksmith), and a Columbus Genius Frameset that I may try out - if it ever makes it out the box.

Also, have a Parlee Z1 I am getting refinished with a more more modern design; not sure how I will build it up. Thinking either Chorus or Red22. We will see.

Shamefully, I haven’t mastered the art of posting pics. One of this new year’s resolutions. :beer:

[jamesdak]

Jamesdak, they are late 80's Mavic CXP33's..at least I think they came out in the late 80's. Might be 90's.

I laced them up to some original 1051 7 speed UG freehub hubs, and was lucky that the red on the frame, the rims, the bar tape and the cages matched closely.

Now wears a Fizik Arione saddle but otherwise the same, about 600 miles later.

Awesome thanks!

[R3awak3n]

its my favorite paint job too. I do like the solid colored paint jobs too. But I am a firm believer that no paint should touch titanium.

agree 100% and why I would take a firefly any day over a BAUM.

[joosttx]

agree 100% and why I would take a firefly any day over a BAUM.

I dont know about that. Firefly is more flexible to get you what you want but the stuff Baum is doing that I mentioned about the Orbis it really neat. I have to give Baum the nod. With that said only of you want a road bike or a gravel bike which takes a maximum of 33mm tires. All others iterations I would go with FF, Eriksen, Seven or Mosaic. So, maybe not the Baum. I am not sure. Regardless, all brands mention are the top of the top. Why I put the Baum here was some of the innovations that they released with this model.

[Clean39T]

Add me to the “sans pics” group. Had a few frames, but don’t have time to list them all. These are the first to bubble to the top.

Peg Responsorium. Std 62 geo, custom solid paint. Built with SR. Very nice ride. All day comfort and the (seems to be hated?) head tube allows for no spacers/slammed look. Of course, fitted with non compact bars and set back post.

‘12 Cervelo R5 VWD. Was my race bike this season. Light, stiff and a nice ride. Not really a fan of the sloping top tubes, but Cervelos, as many as I have had, seem to always hold a place in my stable. This was my low buck brawler. Bullt with Force 22, Quarq; 15.5lbs for a 61.

‘16 Cervelo R5. Rode pretty much like the VWD with greater tire clearance and a more preferred pint job. Red 22, 15.1 lbs.

Recently went back to Cannondale in prep for next year’s race season. Hi-mod ‘16 Evo, Force 22; 63cm. Of the older Evos and CAAD framesets I rode, this is the smoothest so far. Should be a fun, upcoming season.

Used to have a Holland Ti; sold to Clean39t. That one was a nice ride. Level top tube and had a good fit. Rode very well with an ENVE fork.

Up for next year will be a couple new ones to try out. This includes a custom frame being made by Barco at the moment (via Blacksmith), and a Columbus Genius Frameset that I may try out - if it ever makes it out the box.

Also, have a Parlee Z1 I am getting refinished with a more more modern design; not sure how I will build it up. Thinking either Chorus or Red22. We will see.

Shamefully, I haven’t mastered the art of posting pics. One of this new year’s resolutions. :beer:


I like your style...I need to learn the art of holding on to some frames while riding others...will be easier once I get a little more confident in my fit parameters...thought I had it, but the Emonda is showing me some new things (I wish I’d seen before selling the larger/longer ti frames I had earlier in the year).

I need to take a trip out east and bring a couple bikes for us to swap around. I’d love to try those Cervelos, and the Cdale - I had a 63cm CAAD10 and loved how that rode, can only imagine the HiMod would run circles around it.

BTW - that Holland is up in BC awaiting a build in due time...it’s in good hands :)

[nobuseri]

I like your style...I need to learn the art of holding on to some frames while riding others...will be easier once I get a little more confident in my fit parameters...thought I had it, but the Emonda is showing me some new things (I wish I’d seen before selling the larger/longer ti frames I had earlier in the year).

I need to take a trip out east and bring a couple bikes for us to swap around. I’d love to try those Cervelos, and the Cdale - I had a 63cm CAAD10 and loved how that rode, can only imagine the HiMod would run circles around it.

BTW - that Holland is up in BC awaiting a build in due time...it’s in good hands :)

No prob! Come on out and we can set them up, swap and ride. Not as hilly out here though, but we can make it work. :)

My CAAD10 was a pretty nice brawler. Haven’t tried a CAAD 12. Waiting for them to go low enough on eBay to grab one.

I have a Red Hook Allez sprint; new in box. :banana:

I like the alloy rides, but the carbon ones have their place(s).
Got a couple other frames that are sitting/in the works. Slowly building my Super X for next cross season, etc.

Mainly, I keep a few framesets around and swap group sets/wheels/finishing kits.

[geeter]

I finally built a Jones Spaceframe. Kept me riding after having spine surgery. Best all around bike I've ever owned.

Also got an FBM Hunter Gatherer off the forum that I absolutely love. It's been my only road rig since acquiring.

Sent from my LGLS992 using Tapatalk

[Clean39T]

Mainly, I keep a few framesets around and swap group sets/wheels/finishing kits.

Maybe that's what my 2018 resolution should be - I can buy as many frames as I want, but I'm not allowed to sell any... :banana:

[oliver1850]

Honestly can't remember very many good rides this year, seems I spent most of 9 months mowing. Really enjoyed hitting the trails with the CST though. Love this bike but with availability of replacement parts being iffy, don't want to ride it very often.

[Mzilliox]

Maybe that's what my 2018 resolution should be - I can buy as many frames as I want, but I'm not allowed to sell any... :banana:

Or maybe dont analyze every one to its hen's teeth and instead set it up and ride it. then dont overthink the ride. my best fitting bike was a total accident, because i didn't put any preconceived notion into how my bike was supposed to fit. i just tried a bunch from different builders. my Goodrich has 8mm bb drop, and some other crazy stuff that on paper you would look at and go nope. then i rode it. and now i try bike out around my size because one of them is gonna top the goodrich, and its not going to be because i designed it, thats for sure.

[Ernesto]

Or maybe dont analyze every one to its hen's teeth and instead set it up and ride it. then dont overthink the ride. my best fitting bike was a total accident, because i didn't put any preconceived notion into how my bike was supposed to fit. i just tried a bunch from different builders. my Goodrich has 8mm bb drop, and some other crazy stuff that on paper you would look at and go nope. then i rode it. and now i try bike out around my size because one of them is gonna top the goodrich, and its not going to be because i designed it, thats for sure.

re: "my best fitting bike was a total accident, because i didn't put any preconceived notion into how my bike was supposed to fit."

Truth! I've gone through my share of bikes over the last few years. They were all set up somewhat differently with the exception of saddle height and setback. I only feel 'right' sitting a certain way. I didn't obsess over saddle to bar drop, reach or shifter placement. I just happened on an incredible fit/balance on my Serotta Colorado II. Love the way it rides, too. Amazingly it will be by 'A' bike for the third consecutive year.

[Mzilliox]

re: "my best fitting bike was a total accident, because i didn't put any preconceived notion into how my bike was supposed to fit."

Truth! I've gone through my share of bikes over the last few years. They were all set up somewhat differently with the exception of saddle height and setback. I only feel 'right' sitting a certain way. I didn't obsess over saddle to bar drop, reach or shifter placement. I just happened on an incredible fit/balance on my Serotta Colorado II. Love the way it rides, too. Amazingly it will be by 'A' bike for the third consecutive year.

Yup, just get your saddle in the right spot to pedal and go!

[Imaking20]

Sorry, but that is complete nonsense. Get a proper bike fit. Once you have, you take those measurements with you and not only experience bikes in a different way but it takes the guess work out of "will this bike fit or not?" This IS actually a science. My last 5 frames have had the EXACT same fit which let's me compare the equipment instead of how I'm sitting on the bike.

[weisan]

Spoken like people who have never had a proper bike fit. Once you have, you not only experience bikes in a different way but it takes the guess work out of "will this bike fit or not?" This IS actually a science.

Oops....thread derailment imminent danger. All personnel on standby to assist.

https://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--e7qj96Uc--/c_scale,fl_progressive,q_80,w_800/jjdti78an1h23ta4hntr.jpg

[saab2000]

Oohhh..... Never mind.

[AngryScientist]

2017 for me saw about 85% of my riding time and miles split between two bikes:

zank:

https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6S6GBwza9Ow/WcJrLmjeqjI/AAAAAAAAC4U/aMa1uqzQRlAnArDxXOUtNoP5U5I0oH0KQCLcBGAs/s1140/IMG_1226.JPG

and Ritchey for off pavement:

https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2qzS7gl1lYc/WdQdL-5Oe6I/AAAAAAAAC5M/8QtCu47J6Qwx49n3JeV4y9iXpXMjByOgQCLcBGAs/s1140/IMG_1344.JPG

what i have learned, is that for the riding i do, these are all the bikes i could ever need, but like many of you - i crave a little variety once in a while, so i mix it up with some of the other bikes in the garage, of which there are quite a few to choose from. to round it out to 5, as requested by OP:

Lug'd steel with sweet rolling tubies:

https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PZqDS94K64Q/WSoYNk8O1wI/AAAAAAAACzc/rHB6ifrLdvMzbwxX09aUrixkeniYq1JfwCLcB/s1140/IMG_0708.JPG

aluminum, italian style:

https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XL3uFmtnKRM/WMMvsJ_cegI/AAAAAAAACvI/GStzwVtAvpElF9AGC-Y1CblhokvPagJ_ACLcB/s1140/IMG_0223.JPG

and, something for when the show goes on the road:

https://instagram.fewr1-4.fna.fbcdn.net/t51.2885-15/e35/23161666_2023659944535701_6379895990874275840_n.jp g

[Clean39T]

2017 for me saw about 85% of my riding time and miles split between two bikes:

and Ritchey for off pavement:

https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2qzS7gl1lYc/WdQdL-5Oe6I/AAAAAAAAC5M/8QtCu47J6Qwx49n3JeV4y9iXpXMjByOgQCLcBGAs/s1140/IMG_1344.JPG



Absolutely love the color of that Ritchey - is it a regular swiss-cross, or what's the model/year?

[Clean39T]

Oops....thread derailment imminent danger. All personnel on standby to assist.

https://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--e7qj96Uc--/c_scale,fl_progressive,q_80,w_800/jjdti78an1h23ta4hntr.jpg

In all fairness, the thread derailed when people started talking theoretical favorite bikes of the year instead of the bikes they personally experienced...but hey, threads gonna be threads...they have a tendency to wander :D

[Clean39T]

Or maybe dont analyze every one to its hen's teeth and instead set it up and ride it. then dont overthink the ride. my best fitting bike was a total accident, because i didn't put any preconceived notion into how my bike was supposed to fit. i just tried a bunch from different builders. my Goodrich has 8mm bb drop, and some other crazy stuff that on paper you would look at and go nope. then i rode it. and now i try bike out around my size because one of them is gonna top the goodrich, and its not going to be because i designed it, thats for sure.

Some good points my friend. Of course, do remember that much of the "analyzing to the hens teeth" shows up on the forum, while the "smiling out my real teeth" happens in real life, on the roads, in the garage, etc. I've done much overthinking this past year, but also had a helluva lot of fun - and learned a ton. And it keeps happening. I feel like I've got my contact point measurements pretty much dialed now (which a bike fitter would have helped with), but am still figuring out the way those contact points can show up in space to create an entirely different riding experience (something a frame builder could help with, but not a bike fitter) - I'm talking things like trail, and BB drop, and wheelbase, and chain stay length, which show up in how a bike corners, and whether my big old gunboat feet almost cause me to fall over because I have so much toe overlap. And in that space, I still have much experimenting to do - and will be looking for some serendipity, which the Emonda is actually providing more than a bit of...

On the art vs. science continuum, I fall heavily on the art and intuiting side - and yet I also like to look at what has been intuitively chosen through a scientific lens to understand it a bit better - until at some point I get to just say, "well, hmmm, that's interesting, don't know why I like it, but I do.."

[Imaking20]

Oops....thread derailment imminent danger. All personnel on standby to assist.

https://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--e7qj96Uc--/c_scale,fl_progressive,q_80,w_800/jjdti78an1h23ta4hntr.jpg

How about the 3 posts prior to mine?

[m4rk540]

this is actually a pseudo-science.

fify

[Mzilliox]

Some good points my friend. Of course, do remember that much of the "analyzing to the hens teeth" shows up on the forum, while the "smiling out my real teeth" happens in real life, on the roads, in the garage, etc. I've done much overthinking this past year, but also had a helluva lot of fun - and learned a ton. And it keeps happening. I feel like I've got my contact point measurements pretty much dialed now (which a bike fitter would have helped with), but am still figuring out the way those contact points can show up in space to create an entirely different riding experience (something a frame builder could help with, but not a bike fitter) - I'm talking things like trail, and BB drop, and wheelbase, and chain stay length, which show up in how a bike corners, and whether my big old gunboat feet almost cause me to fall over because I have so much toe overlap. And in that space, I still have much experimenting to do - and will be looking for some serendipity, which the Emonda is actually providing more than a bit of...

On the art vs. science continuum, I fall heavily on the art and intuiting side - and yet I also like to look at what has been intuitively chosen through a scientific lens to understand it a bit better - until at some point I get to just say, "well, hmmm, that's interesting, don't know why I like it, but I do.."

Oh totally, I'm guilty of the same all the time, fiddling with my saddle, trying new bikes, etc etc. My comment was made with only about 50% seriousness as i wouldn't expect one to just keep buying bikes until they stumble on one that fits. I know you can take a bit of ribbing about your bike buying year, since you give yourself a bit of crap for it.
But As Mr King says, a proper bike fit would always help. unfortunately Ive had 2 not very good fits, and maybe part of that was lack of input on my end, but i was underwhelmed by the process and didn't come out smiling with the solution to my bike fit woes, maybe just a bit more insight on my cleat position, haha.

[Kirk007]

Interesting thread, I'll play sorta.

Started the year with 2 Spectrums, both from a fellow Paceliner, a Colnago C50, a Kirk and a Peg Marcelo.

Using my experiences with the Spectrums, I visited Tom last December and a Spectrum of my very own showed up just before Christmas. It didn't get on the road until the first day of 2018 and it is still in the tweaking phase on the little build details. But it doesn't take much more than a test drive to realize that Tom hit it out of the park and it was exactly what I envisioned.

Based on my experience with the Colnago, my interest in carbon was reborn - comfortable, light, stable, carves turns intuitively - but my body and Colnago geometry is not a great match, and I always wanted to buy a bike from the Hampsten brothers, and talking to Steve it was clear that we had similar ideas about what a carbon bike should be. Hence a Hampsten Squadra appeared the beginning of December. An undersized seatpost and other lame excuses have kept it in the garage most of the time, but it too is very much what I envisioned.

Riding both today back to back confirmed that they both work very well for me yet they both feel sufficiently distinctive, and are designed, to not completely overlap. The Hampsten is a pure road bike through and through. The Spectrum is designed to go just about anywhere yet ride like a pure road bike.

Mission accomplished. 2018 is starting out with these two bikes. The Colnago is ready to go up for sale and the Spectrum rando will need to find a new home when a 333Fab AirLandSea arrives and takes its place as a 650B, dynamo lights, front loads, off road - road end of the "spectrum." The Peg will stay - the Hampsten makes it redundant but it's too good to let go. The Kirk has been re-homed as it was a travel bike that wasn't getting used (another Kirk is on my wish list for someday).

It has taken a lot of experimenting to figure out what I wanted but I'm very pleased with this lineup.

Here's a not quite prime time shot of the Spectrum.

[nobuseri]

Sweet ride, Greg. Need more pics of that sweet Spectrum!

[Clean39T]

Interesting thread, I'll play sorta.



Started the year with 2 Spectrums, both from a fellow Paceliner, a Colnago C50, a Kirk and a Peg Marcelo.



Using my experiences with the Spectrums, I visited Tom last December and a Spectrum of my very own showed up just before Christmas. It didn't get on the road until the first day of 2018 and it is still in the tweaking phase on the little build details. But it doesn't take much more than a test drive to realize that Tom hit it out of the park and it was exactly what I envisioned.



Based on my experience with the Colnago, my interest in carbon was reborn - comfortable, light, stable, carves turns intuitively - but my body and Colnago geometry is not a great match, and I always wanted to buy a bike from the Hampsten brothers, and talking to Steve it was clear that we had similar ideas about what a carbon bike should be. Hence a Hampsten Squadra appeared the beginning of December. An undersized seatpost and other lame excuses have kept it in the garage most of the time, but it too is very much what I envisioned.



Riding both today back to back confirmed that they both work very well for me yet they both feel sufficiently distinctive, and are designed, to not completely overlap. The Hampsten is a pure road bike through and through. The Spectrum is designed to go just about anywhere yet ride like a pure road bike.



Mission accomplished. 2018 is starting out with these two bikes. The Colnago is ready to go up for sale and the Spectrum rando will need to find a new home when a 333Fab AirLandSea arrives and takes its place as a 650B, dynamo lights, front loads, off road - road end of the "spectrum." The Peg will stay - the Hampsten makes it redundant but it's too good to let go. The Kirk has been re-homed as it was a travel bike that wasn't getting used (another Kirk is on my wish list for someday).



It has taken a lot of experimenting to figure out what I wanted but I'm very pleased with this lineup.



Here's a not quite prime time shot of the Spectrum.


Great write-up - and that’s a pretty sweet end to the year! Looking forward to hearing more about all three of your young-in’s in 2018.

[Imaking20]

fify
No, you didn't.

But As Mr King says, a proper bike fit would always help. unfortunately Ive had 2 not very good fits, and maybe part of that was lack of input on my end, but i was underwhelmed by the process and didn't come out smiling with the solution to my bike fit woes, maybe just a bit more insight on my cleat position, haha.

All are definitely not created equal. I've had fits by two pros (and a few "other") and they were wildly different. My go-to now is Joe Holcomb at West End in Portland. He spends as much time going through a physical assessment, before you get on the bike, as most do for their whole fit. So your verbal feedback could be limited but your body will still tell a story. There's a reason this guy works on a number of pros in PDX and flies down to Specialized HQ several times a year to teach.


My contribution to the actual topic - I owned 5 bikes in 2017 and the ones I found most impactful were the blue C60 and Litespeed T2. There is something special about a Colnago and I found the blue bike visually stunning. The only real fault of that bike is a BB standard I think is a little stupid. The Litespeed is shaping up to be almost everything a C60 was but at a lower price, lighter weight, and a slightly smoother ride. 2018 should be a lot of fun!

[texbike]

90% of my miles this year were spent on either my Vamoots or C40. Their fit is dialed and they ride great. They've both sat in the top spot for the last several years as others have either moved on to new homes or had minimal use. These are the two that I really look forward to riding. However, my last miles of 2017 were spent on a recently purchased BBQ black CAAD7. That bike rocks as well. It isn't quite as smooth as the C40 or Vamoots, but is impressive enough. The fit is close to perfect (needs a couple of small changes), the handling and acceleration are more than acceptable, and it looks the part.

I also picked up a Time VXS module from a forumite a few months back that is still waiting to be built. It'll be interesting to see if the Time and the CAAD have an impact on the share of miles that the C40 and Vamoots see in 2018.

Texbike

[Clean39T]

All are definitely not created equal. I've had fits by two pros (and a few "other") and they were wildly different. My go-to now is Joe Holcomb at West End in Portland. He spends as much time going through a physical assessment, before you get on the bike, as most do for their whole fit. So your verbal feedback could be limited but your body will still tell a story. There's a reason this guy works on a number of pros in PDX and flies down to Specialized HQ several times a year to teach.


I'll cede to you that a qualified fitter of Joe's caliber can help nail you optimal physical placement on a bike at the point in time that you are assessed, and keep you in a good spot with updates as you're body morphs - and they may be able to recommend a bike or two that would allow you to easily place your coordinates in the appropriate spots - BUT - from there a whole host of decisions still need to be made about geometries, materials, tuning, etc., all of which will significantly impact how you actually experience the bike.

Turning to my recent experience: I can ride a smaller bike with a 58TT, 18HT, and 130mm -6deg stem, and have my contact points in exactly the right place as far as saddle height, reach, and drop. OR I can ride a larger bike with a 59TT, 21HT, and 120mm -17deg steam, and have all that in the same place (adjusting for HT/ST angles, maybe a spacer or two on either). Each has tradeoffs though. And I'm still working through how those show themselves. This is where a frame builder comes in. And I'm sure if I spent some time with Kirk, Steve, Tom, or a host of others, they'd help me find that sweet-spot where my coordinates really sing on the machine. Or I can continue the experimenting. Or some combo of the two...

[bob heinatz]

This is a great thread. I only have three bikes but each one is a little bit different but I enjoy each one. 2 steel 1 Ti. My favorite on this thread is the Weigle posted on the first page. I would love to ride it just once. We sure love our bikes. Is there anyone here who has or is comtemplating owning just one bike? I am in that camp but haven’t done it yet.