Merlin Titanium Mountain Bike Medium 26 " Wheels Pristine, Rare IRD Rotary Brake
Item History & Price
Reference Number: Avaluer:603629 | Brand: Merlin |
Frame Size: M | Wheel Size: 26" |
Type: Mountain Bike | Frame Material: Titanium |
Gender: Unisex Adult |
From center of bottom bolt to seat tube top is 18.5" I am 5'6" and in the middle of the range of fit for this bike IMO, although that's a very subjective judgement as the previous owner was 5'9" and I feel sure that riders significantly shorter than I could be comfortable on it. The best way to know is to come and ride it. I love this bike (it's sitting in my living room right now) and would keep it but a recent back injury forces me (at 70 years of age) to find a bike with a very soft suspension on both wheels.
Ergon G1 handle grips, Mavic rims, Wellgo magnesium pedals, XTR brake levers, 3x8 Shimano SG gearing. Shifts perfectly.
This bike has a rare and superb rear brake that has a great touch and has encouraged comments like this one a few days ago: "Hi, Nice bike. Did you know that the rear brake is an extremely rare IRD Rotary brake. It was IRD's attempt at a Cunningham/Suntour roller cam brake. It was supposed to work very well. I have seen that brake alone sell for over $600us.
Mention the brake and you may get a bidding war. Already have a vintage Merlin and too many bikes or I would consider yours.
Happy Trails, Anthony"
For me, the uses of this bike included recreational fitness on pavement, gravel and groomed trails. It could certainly be used on the toughest trails and would be an amazing super light trail racer as well. After all, what other bike would be this light and this capable? However, its present excellent condition indicates it has never been used for the latter purpose.
Local pickup with cash or Paypal only, I prefer not to ship a bike this valuable. There are nice paved and trail loops to test ride around at my place near East Gull Lake in central Minnesota.