henrysthreeironbands
Senior Retro Guru
I've been searching around and talking to some people, seems the frame is probably a 1999 model (see component mix on the one on the pic).
One guy (a semi-pro XC racer at the time) says he had a 1997 model and a 1998 model. The paintjob on the 97 version developed cracks and he had it x-rayed by an engineering firm (!). There were no signs of cracks or flaws, an indication that the frame itself was more flexible than the paint, not surprising given the chainstay-only design. His 1998 model was noticeably heavier and more rigid.
Seems the manufacturer had to strengthen the frame, hence add material, thus increasing weight. Within few years the manufacturer opted for a traditional diamond-frame design and more advanced composite materials.
My frame weighs more than 2 kg including BB and headset cups. On weightweenies I see weights of ~1600-1800 grams, may be earlier versions. But Scales are in another league, how much are they, 990 grams?
One guy (a semi-pro XC racer at the time) says he had a 1997 model and a 1998 model. The paintjob on the 97 version developed cracks and he had it x-rayed by an engineering firm (!). There were no signs of cracks or flaws, an indication that the frame itself was more flexible than the paint, not surprising given the chainstay-only design. His 1998 model was noticeably heavier and more rigid.
Seems the manufacturer had to strengthen the frame, hence add material, thus increasing weight. Within few years the manufacturer opted for a traditional diamond-frame design and more advanced composite materials.
My frame weighs more than 2 kg including BB and headset cups. On weightweenies I see weights of ~1600-1800 grams, may be earlier versions. But Scales are in another league, how much are they, 990 grams?