Vitus?

[Fatmat]

Hello. I’m trying to identify the model. The headtube lower & fork crown look very Vitus, steel frame, aluminium fork, exterior cabling with early looking guides, suspicious decals! Not convinced it’s a 992, basic lugs (but nice welding) / not the usual fancy ones you’d expect, posh headset, no chassis number, nice paint, if it is a re-spray they’ve done a good job. Does anyone have any thoughts?

 

[zerogravitas]

Hmm, an interesting puzzle. The fork is the same as a real 992, and the headtube is really distinctive (and presumably shaped to match the fork). Otherwise it's not a 992!

I see the odd limited run steel frame built and badged as a Vitus pop up from time to time so this could be something for a pro team? Weird to see it stickered up as a 992 and with relatively unrefined finish though.
I would suggest asking on the Facebook Vitus group if no one else chimes in.

 

[Jonny69]

It's not a 992 - they were bonded aluminium frames.

I don't recall ever seeing a lugless steel Vitus frame. It might not even be a Vitus.

The fork looks like it might be off a 992 though. Have you stuck a magnet on it to see if it's aluminium?

 

[Helmut Head]

I can't help BUT I have a similar frame which I have been trying to identify for some time - your frame is older, looking at the rear dropouts.
Mine has a Vitus 992 ali fork and headset in a semi-integrated headtube. Badged as a mid 90's Wilier. Very nice light steel frame - it probably isn't a Wilier as I can't imagine an Italian company using French components! I'm pretty sure mine was made in France and I'd guess yours is too.

 

[Zullo]

From some angles it definitely looks like a Frankenbike, others totally legit steel 992 variant.

 

[Zullo]

I wonder if there's anything in the catalogues?

 

[ChromeChainstay]

Whatever it is i'd ride it. Would you throw some wheels in it and take a pic please, thanks