Titanium bikes

[a8s0lut0]

What’s the consensus on titanium bikes? More / less comfy? Worth the money? Good resale value?

Anyone with experience riding the Ti would be much appreciated! I’m looking at a 2000 Litespeed (a company I have no experience with) Tuscany, with different components than what comes stock on the 01, 02, or 03 (according to Bikepedia). From the owner:

Titanium frame with perfect welds, no scratches cracks or dings, no repairs and new decals. Comes with a LOOK carbon fork, Shumano Ultegra 9-speed shifters, derailleurs, and brakes. New FSA K-Force MegaEXO carbon crank set, titanium seat post and stem, Chris King headset, and Sella Italia ProLink saddle. New Real Design wheels and tires with 0 miles on them, coming from a newer 2007 Tuscany.

Thanks in advance!

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[jcpetrson]

I’ve had a litespeed mtn bike for ten years and dont think I will ever sell it. I had to make the tough choice between my full suspended GT and kept the hardtail.

The best part of titanium is that it rides like a steel frame but weighs significantly less. If you are looking for a solid bike that will last for years and don’t like the high prices of carbon fiber, this can be a good compromise.

My road bikes are carbon fiber and aluminum.

[DSalovesh]

Here’s a classic article that explains where titanium fits into the spectrum of what bikes are made of.

My summary is that titanium should be the crown jewel of frame materials – expensive, tricky to work well, priced over its inherent value, but ultimately rewarding in an almost intangible and sublime way. Personally, I’m using my current bikes as design tests of the titanium versions I’ll eventually have custom made.

[Author]

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