Quote:
Originally Posted by Rayomatic
I've never even seen an MXL in the flesh, so wouldn't know stock geometry if it bit my non-Euclidean rear! The Columbus sticker says MXL. I can try and show some pics of the lugs and TT.
I like the complete bike, parts and all, and would keep/ride it as-is (maybe some new tires and bar tape down the line).
The provenance is just a little icing on the cake...it wasn't Eddy  but another Belgian racer. |
First, Merckx MXLs are highly desirable, at least to those who highly desire them. I'd do almost anything for one, but alas it would have to be a custom geo (longer than stock Merckx TT). I finally found a custom SL/SP Merckx (built for a Belgian neo-pro). Bought the frameset with panto Cinelli stem, Campy headset, BB and seatpost for $600 plus shipping from France.
I think Fishbike's numbers are right on for standard tubing. Add $$ when it's just what you want, have been waiting years for, is the right size, etc
If the sticker says MXL than 99% sure it's an MXL, in general more desirable than a MAX Merckx. Are the parts top of the line, Dura Ace or Campy Chorus/Record, I assume 8 spd ? With your wanting to ride it as is I'd go as high as $2k if it's near mint, just what you want and ± a few hundred $ isn't going to put you into a painful place. If the seller is asking is the $3k neighborhood it may be hard to deal with him on realistic terms.
Edit: Just saw your pic, Campy Record with five pivot last gen Deltas, Shamals and a beautiful paintjob. If you have the means I don't think upping the ante is out of the question. Worth and worth-to-you are two very different things. If $3k gets it and you're OK with it, you couldn't duplicate it today for under $6k.