Re:
First Ride - 8.2 miles and 919ft.
I can only compare to the other two steel hand made frames i have (Pioneer and Alves) so...........
First impression was that the rear brake was spongy despite the Vs until i stopped, looked down and watched the stays visibly flex on reasonable pressure. This is not to say I couldn't lock it up at will on all surfaces, just a bit of a departure for the on/off less subtle U brakes on the others. Front was planted and far less twitchy than the pioneer which makes for a less stressful concerted ride - again, not as laid back as the Alves though but very much a confidence inspiring characteristic of fast steering but not crazy fast a la Pioneer.
On the 800ft mile long climb I put in a PB despite it not being as 'press and go'. I'm sure that this is the man for all seasons type of rider that has taken the best aspects of a full on race type frame and a climbing frame with a little high speed downhill confidence inspiring sure footed-ness thrown in for good measure.
All it requires is a chain stay protector as I winced with every slap on the 35mph home run. (I blame the tyres for the 10mph drop in speed) I know i say this with all my bikes but I now have another hard to part with rarity. I didn't grin and fight all the way round as i do on the Pioneer. I didn't feel stately yet able to press on should in comfort as i do on the Alves. The Phantom feels not too hot, not too cold. In fact, just right.
Whatever happened to all these alchemists?
Pictures to follow.