[CR]Mercian, Thorn, & Atlantis

(Example: Framebuilders:Masi)

From: "Beyer, Chris (C.C.)" <cbeyer2@volvocars.com>
To: "'rodk3d@attbi.com'" <rodk3d@attbi.com>, JONATHAN COWDEN <slx53@msn.com>
Date: Wed, 26 Mar 2003 13:30:30 -0500
HOP-COUNT: 1
cc: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Subject: [CR]Mercian, Thorn, & Atlantis

Having owned all three, I'd go along with Jon's assessment of the three.

The Thorns are well-designed and well-thought-out, but built to a price point. Very little in the way of finish detail work (paint, a few transfers, and not much else). Good deal as a utilitarian bike. A few options, but not many.

Mercian allows you the most open choices, from a huge color palette, to different lugs, geometry, your choice of braze-ons, etc. Paint is better than the Thorne, but not up to the standards of artists like Messrs. Weigle, Baylis, Bell, et al. My Bates has a nicer finish. Mercian does do lots of detail work, such as lug outlining.

The Atlantis has the best paintjob of the three, but you don't get any choice as far as color, braze-ons (although it probably has all that anyone could need), etc. Very nicely built, and quite robust, but no lightweight.

Chris _________________________________________________ Chris Beyer Volvo Cars of North America, LLC Customer Relations Rockleigh, NJ USA

Telephone: 800.550.5658
E-mail: CBeyer2@volvocars.com