I have an opportunity to purchase a used lugged Merckx Century frameset from a friend. Year is unknown, tubing is Columbus TSX. I know next to nothing about this model and cannot seem to find much info in the archives or online. I don't know seat or head tube angles or fork rake. The only dimensions I have are chainstay (approx 42cm) and seat and top tubes (56cm).
I am not concerned with whether the frame is collectible. Rather, I am seeking a frameset that I might build up as a comparatively more lightweight and "racier" alternative to my current (57cm) Rivendell Romulus.
The frameset is dismantled so I cannot take it for a test ride. Can anyone wager a guess as to how the ride might compare to the Romulus?
As for tire clearence, would it likely fit a Michelin Pro2 Race in 25c? What about a Grand Bois Cerf (26c or 28c) or a Roll-y Pol-y (27c)? Or is this a model better suited to narrow tires 23c or under? How might the choice of tire width/pressure affect the handling of this model?
Any other considerations to help me make an informed decision are welcome. Thanks in advance.
Aaron Thomas
Santa Monica, CA