Price Paid:
$4500.00
at Eddy merckx factory, Favorite Ride:
Casitas lake loop from ventura. Bike Setup:
mentioned above in review summary catagory. Summary:
On a recent trip to Belgium last November (2003), I visited the Merckx factory located in Meise,Belgium. For the last 20 years, I've purchased four frames from the factory: 2 corsa extra and 2 Mx leader frames. Before the euro was implemented, I was able to purchase Merckx frames factory direct for appox.33%cheaper compared to calif. bike shop prices. In Nov. I talked to the merckx rep. and told him I was interested in a time trial frame/triathlon frame. He advised a frame could be built in 6 weeks made of Easton aluminum with carbon fork and carbon wrap seat and chain stays (identifed as SC Chrono). I looked at picture of it in the brochure and it looked impressive, sleek, and fast. The rep advised it would cost 3000 euros for the frame and fork and it would be sent to me in approx. 6-8 weeks. I told him I was a big advocate of Merckx's frames, but the frame and fork were too much money for a substitute teacher/lifeguard. I thanked him for his time. As I was leaving, the rep advised that he had a used Axel Merckx time trial (SC Chrono) frame with approx.100 km on it hanging up in the rafters. He brought out the frame and I was in awe at its appearance. It was a custom built, painted 6/4 titanium frame with carbon fork and race sponsor decals on it along with "A.Merckx" decal on the top tube. The tubes were stout air foil design with a cowling(Cut-out) on the rear seat tube. The measurement from the bottom bracket to seat tube is 54cm; however, the seat tube extends above the top tube merge to 67cm from bottom bracket. I bought it for 1500 euros and brought it back with me on the plane. It hibernated under my bed for 4 months before I assembled it. I ride with a club in Long beach called velo Allegro. Through them, I was able to buy components/parts/accessories at very affordable prices. Here's the list:
Dura ace 9 speed package minus misc.items
FSA carbon Pro cranks 53/39 chain ring 11-23 ultegra cassete
FSA bottom bracket/headset
Zipp 404 clydesdale wheelset
vision pro(Aluminum)aero bars Dura Ace front end shifters
Wellgo pedals, inexpensive-look knock off
American classic seat post. I elected with the 9 speed instead of 10 to minimize costs with no regrets. Also, the ultegra aluminum cassette, in my opinion, functions extremely well and costs way less than the dura-ace titanium cassette. The bike was designed to equip a 55 chainring or larger based on the height of the front derailer. A 53 works well, but a 55 would be better for large to small chainring adjustments. Strengths:
SC Chrono Titanium 6/4 is stiff due to frame geometry and stout pipes. Frame and fork are light, especially considering the amount (a lot)of titanium used. Too stiff? no.. I weigh a hefty 215 pounds,subsequently I need a strong,stiff frame to minimize flex. Airfoil shape tubes and rear wheel cut out translates to fast/aero performance. Carbon fork is aero and somewhat bladed, definetely dampens road vibrations. On smooth road this bike performs like a magic carpet ride, but on the bumps, it can be a tad rough on the crotch. The design allows the rider to be in a forward aero position that is relatively comfortable. Rear wheel cut out allows for better aerodynamics and snappier performance, bringing the rear wheel extremely close to bottom bracket. I was pleasantly surprised how well the bike climbs, attributed to position and weight, and descends confidently and quickly. Weaknesses:
Probably too stiff for a small,light rider. Aero position can be uncomfortable,especially if you have chronic back problems. Cost of a new bike is pricey, but worth it if you're a merckx advocate. Similar Products Used:
Eddy merckx MX leader. My SC Chrono Titanium is stiffer than my MX leader..Would you believe it?
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