merlin build idea's

[videojetman]

i have just taken delivery of a very nice merlin titanium mtb frame.
i have been after a titanium hardtail for years, so i've taken the plunge.
thing is i don't have a clue what to build it with, the only thing i know is
i will be using a suspension fork. maybe a pace one.
but the rest i'm not sure about.
so i am open to suggestions.
and open to buying as much retro kit to keep it retro.
thanks for looking. jeff.

 

[cce]

for me a ti build has to be pretty subtle, with maybe one lovely coloured highlight

i strongly favour black seatpost and stem, and a pace or other black fork is the right choice imho

this is mine - it's been tidied up a bit since then

as you can see i practice what i preach.

i've give thought to blue SIDs but the rims would have to go if i did.

 

[cce]

oh, and m950 looks lovely on a Ti frame.

 

[GT-Steve]

m95* certainly does look spiffing on a Ti frame.

1" suspension forks are quite limiting, but I have spotted a few nice sets of bright blue SID's recently. I've never thought Pace's look right on a Merlin, but that's just my humble..

Looking forward to deeing where this one goes.

Assuming it;s the one Ash was selling?

 

[Mr.Toad]

Personally i'd go full rigid with a Gatorblade or BOI Chance fork.

Components, either full M900 or full custom blend. Merlin's were sold as a frame only so anything goes really, just a matter of personal preference.

Canti's for sure.....runs and hides.....

 

[videojetman]

i'd really love to go with rigid fork on this bike, but seeing as i will be riding it, a bouncy fork is the only option.
and i will be going with canti's.
and thanks to ash for selling this beauty.

 

[AmberGambler]

I had the same issue, rigid looks great but front suspension is needed at least the way i ride. I had a set of Judy FSX on which looked great but the sealing/elastomer thingy is long gone now so had to update. The choice was between a AMP and Look Fournales, although I was also looking at the Use Sub fork but it just was to modern for me. Found a NOS Fournales that I finally settled with and think it looks quite ok.

 

[northerndave]

I have exactly the same kind of build planned for a Merlin I've bought.

Funny a Ti Fat asks for a bit of bling, but a Merlin seems to ask for it less. 

My plan is subtle but sophisticated. M900 running gear, pewter grafting cranks and probably a Judy FSX. 

I'd keep it simple and understated but high end. Keep it US too on components.

 

[davemev]

I think some pace forks or possibly AMP and a splash of anno blue. Such a gorgeous frame. Look at the BOTM titanium link below for some inspiration. My personal favourite is the Fat Chance.
http://www.retrobike.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?t=25611

 

[AmberGambler]

I think some pace forks or possibly AMP and a splash of anno blue. Such a gorgeous frame. Look at the BOTM titanium link below for some inspiration. My personal favourite is the Fat Chance.
http://www.retrobike.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?t=25611

have to say that the Funk is a rare beast but carstesns elevator would get the vote from me. Classic beautiful and unfortunately nothing that I would take out on a trail.