Litespeed Tuscany 2002 Road Bike
5
/5
REVIEWS
5.0
QIKRATE
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WEB
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USER REVIEWS
| OVERALL RATING |
5 |
★★★★★
★★★★★
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I have a 2001 Litespeed Tuscany, 20 years old at time of writing. The reason is because it has a 1.25" headtube which is externally butted so there are no problems. It is slightly oversize compared to the classic which is a good thing. All tubes are manipulated, TT is triangle to round, DT is ovalised teardrop, ST is tapered heavier towards the BB and thinner to accept 27.2mm seatpost, Rear stays are curved. Welding is immaculate. In many ways this is a far nicer frame than most available today, it has a traditional horizontal TT and is slightly oversize without looking bulky and the tubes are simply beautiful. Still classic looking but not, in the most tasteful way. Also, it rides beautifully, very very smooth, there's more flex at the BB compared to today's oversized Ti bikes but it still allows one to carry a high gear. Its not unlike a fabulous steel bike in many ways but it is lighter and at least as smooth as my Serotta CSI. I have other high end, stiffer bikes also but will not be parting with the Tuscany as it has a brilliant balance all round. If you like traditional frames I cannot recommend this one highly enough.
None that I am aware of, except perhaps being able to find one easily outside of the USA.
I have a 2001 Litespeed Tuscany, 20 years old at time of writing. The reason is because it has a 1.25" headtube which is externally butted so there are no problems. It is slightly oversize compared to the classic which is a good thing. All tubes are manipulated, TT is triangle to round, DT is ovalised teardrop, ST is tapered heavier towards the BB and thinner to accept 27.2mm seatpost, Rear stays are curved. Welding is immaculate. In many ways this is a far nicer frame than most available today, it has a traditional horizontal TT and is slightly oversize without looking bulky and the tubes are simply beautiful. Still classic looking but not, in the most tasteful way. Also, it rides beautifully, very very smooth, there's more flex at the BB compared to today's oversized Ti bikes but it still allows one to carry a high gear. Its not unlike a fabulous steel bike in many ways but it is lighter and at least as smooth as my Serotta CSI. I have other high end, stiffer bikes also but will not be parting with the Tuscany as it has a brilliant balance all round. If you like traditional frames I cannot recommend this one highly enough.
None that I am aware of, except perhaps being able to find one easily outside of the USA.
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OVERALL RATING |
5 |
★★★★★
★★★★★
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| OVERALL RATING |
5 |
★★★★★
★★★★★
|
| VALUE RATING |
5 |
★★★★★
★★★★★
|
Light weight, excellent build quality, great handling
The stock spec Hutchinson tires lasted all of about 200 miles. They are probably great for someone living in a less rural area.
This bike seems to do everything well. It took some time to get used to the more aggressive steering tube angle, but now that that is settled it is great in the turns. Titanium really does sing. It seems that with this bike I got everyting that I had with steel, but lighter weight.
Similar Products Used:
Tried LeMond (Steel), Cannondale (AL) and Trek 5200 (Carbon). The Tuscany seemed to have all of the good qualities of each and none of the bad.
| OVERALL RATING |
5 |
★★★★★
★★★★★
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| VALUE RATING |
4 |
★★★★★
★★★★★
|
Light weight. Good acceleration. Compliant ride on rough roads.
Even though it's cheaper than the Ghisallo and Vortex, it's still expensive.
The Tuscany is often described as the workhorse of the Litespeed line. But don't let that fool you, this is a not a clydesdale! The shaped tubing make this bike stiff where it needs to be and the curved seat stays make it compliant where it counts. This bike also corners very solidly. I also must say that I really like the Chorus components. They shift much better than the old 105 group on my old bike.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 5000 OCLV
| OVERALL RATING |
5 |
★★★★★
★★★★★
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| VALUE RATING |
5 |
★★★★★
★★★★★
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Excellent craftmanship. Thoughtful touches such as replaceable bearing races on the hidden headset and compatibility with respected manufacturers (Campy and Cane Creek). Classic handling and looks. You'll own this bike for life.
You'll own this bike for life. You will never be able to seriously consider another bike again as an upgrade.
Excellent bike. The quality of the frame build on this bike is as good as it gets. Little touches like the barrel adjusters on the down tube providing adequate room for on the road adjustments, etc. The integrated headset accepts Cane Creek and Campagnola headsets--a very nice touch for the future (especially when you consider the bearing races are changeable so you don't have to worry about the frame itself getting wear and tear from the hidden headset). It rides very smooth and handles quick, but in a predictable manner. It is very confidence inspiring on long descents and makes long rides much more enjoyable than with my previous aluminum frame. If you're a serious rider, this is the bike for you. It doesn't have a flashy Colnago paintjob, but it rides better and has a more classic demeanor and look that you'll appreciate for years. I bought this bike from Louisville Cyclery and had a fantastic experience. They went over fit from every angle (frame size, stem length and rise, handlebar dimensions, crank length, etc.). Although I have been riding a 172.5 mm crank for several years, they recommended a 175 mm crank based on my measurements. I can tell a positive difference. If you're going to buy a high-end bike, do it right and go with a LBS that will make the experience pleasurable.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Allez Pro.