Boy, it’s been a long time since I’ve posted here. To the old COG’rs I wish you all well and hope your travels have been fast and flat free. To the new folks, I hope you’re enjoying your ride here and on the road.
Anyway, to the post…
There is no doubt the Calfee is a bike like few others. But these days more and more manufacturers are turning out their plastic models, waging war with the likes of this bike. I suspect most will not match the character nor the quality that a Calfee steed has lived up to be. Every time I bring the bike off its wheel hooks, from the rafters, and lean it on the wall in preparation of a ride, I stand back for several seconds and just stare at this amazing work of art. It’s fast just leaning there. Weird perhaps, my staring, certainly my wife thinks so, and I can appreciate more people look at their bikes simply as tools, but I think they’re works of art, made by very talented craftsmen.
This is not the point to my thread, rather it’s to discuss the recent purchase of a steel-lugged Serotta Colorado II. As much as I wanted the Calfee, I’ve wanted to expand my stable too, but with kids entering the college years the challenge has been made even greater. Well, with the help and good timing of another Calfee owner looking to sell a bike, the purchase of a used steel bike became possible, and boy, am I enjoying it.
At nearly 3 lbs. heavier, the Serotta seemingly completes the spectrum of ride appreciation. The bike’s “steel is real” feel is spot on and despite the noticeable heft, the bike’s inherent talents serve as a complement to the Calfee. Neither bike competes for the other’s qualities. Rather, each bike has its own character and advantages as well as disadvantages, kind of like a fork versus a spoon.
I’ve recognized that the Serotta has to be left home for the “gun fight” group rides, but will likely be my preference when commuting alone to work, using it for its weight training and for the pure confidence it has in its steering. The steel fork is a heavy wonder. The feel of the road is a connection, not a distraction. The Calfee is luxury in feel, while the Serotta merely reports what is…
I had hoped the passion for other bikes would subside, but it hasn’t. I have a hankering for a cross-style bike which will allow for fat tires, fenders and shellacked cotton wrapped moustache bars with bar-end shifters. I guess I’ve got plenty of time still to lust.
Thanks for the box to stand on.
Kevan
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