Lemond Buenos Aires Reynolds 853 - build or no build?

[ntn007us]

Hello all, it's just my impression, but I rarely see any mention of Lemond bikes in any forum. Having owned a couple of them, I love the brand and their bikes. The fact that the bikes are well engineered with good materials and hand-made in the USA are all pluses in my eye. Too bad things went sideways with Trek.

Since finishing a recent build on another bike, this beautiful Lemond Buenos Aires with Reynold 853 tubing has been sitting among other possible bike projects and might be my next build. The frame and original Icon carbon fork is in immaculate condition, and comes off as new. The red paint looks dripping wet. It's got 130mm rear spacing to boot.

So should I build it up or move on to a Serotta project and move this frame along to a new home?

Would love any feedback.


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[mhespenheide]

I ride both a LeMond Ti Victoire and a Poprad in regular rotation. I've got a black Buenos Aires frameset waiting in the wings to build up eventually, but I'm working on other projects first.

The geometry typically works for me. I think they're fantastic deals on the used market.

If it calls to you, build it up.

[cmg]

build it, ride it. she'd a beauty.

[robt57]

That was before the F-ed them up with way too stiff forks too.

If it's right fit, and you need a RoadRaceGeom to roll on, why not.

Unless it only fits 23s or something, and/or that is an issue for you...

[Peter P.]

A classic, and a bargain to boot.

Build it and be the envy of the group ride.

[Elefantino]

I believe the B.A. had an 853 main triangle and 520 rear, as opposed to the full-853 Zurich. Still a great-riding frame!

[ntn007us]

Originally Posted by Elefantino

I believe the B.A. had an 853 main triangle and 520 rear, as opposed to the full-853 Zurich. Still a great-riding frame!

Yes, I’m pretty sure you’re right!

[RWL2222]

I vote build it. But I’m biased.

[Zackus]

Build it! That red Buenos Aires is one of my favorite color schemes that were offered across all models.

I'm pretty sure most models of this vintage of Lemond can fit 28s.

[mstateglfr]

Originally Posted by ntn007us

So should I build it up or move on to a Serotta project and move this frame along to a new home?

Would love any feedback.

Some responses...
- Its your frame, you decide.
- We need pics of the Serotta to make an informed decision(not really, but still).
- Which frame has geometry that fits you better?
- Which frame do you simply like more for whatever logical or emotional reason(s)?

[Turkle]

I've been loving my Lemond road bike I just built up, detailed in this thread:

https://forums.thepaceline.net/showthread.php?t=288919

Mine is built with the OX Platinum tubing and happily fits 28s. For whatever reason these bikes don't command premium prices on the used market, despite their premium steel and beautiful paint. Can't say I understand why! But I'm thrilled with mine so far, and I got it for next to nothing.

[ntn007us]

Originally Posted by mstateglfr

Some responses...
- Its your frame, you decide.
- We need pics of the Serotta to make an informed decision(not really, but still).
- Which frame has geometry that fits you better?
- Which frame do you simply like more for whatever logical or emotional reason(s)?

Appreciate the guidance! I will snap some photos of the Serotta. It’s a rare gem: a Columbus SLX early 1990s Davis Phinney with original paint and “heart beat” graphics. The paint scheme is a total slice of the 90s, in a fun memorable way!

[jmh]

Is that a 55cm or a 53cm?

If it is a 55cm... I know a guy who would take it if you decide to sell it.

[ntn007us]

Originally Posted by jmh

Is that a 55cm or a 53cm?

If it is a 55cm... I know a guy who would take it if you decide to sell it.

Yes, it is in fact a 55cm. Ping me with a PM if you like.

[ntn007us]

Originally Posted by mhespenheide

I ride both a LeMond Ti Victoire and a Poprad in regular rotation. I've got a black Buenos Aires frameset waiting in the wings to build up eventually, but I'm working on other projects first.

The geometry typically works for me. I think they're fantastic deals on the used market.

If it calls to you, build it up.

Thanks for the guidance! By the way your Lemond Victoire Ti model is right up there with the best IMO.

Cheers