Dear Listmembers,
Today is the day that I have waited on for just the right time. I have o ne particular bike in my collection that I have resisted parting with un til something more special to me finally comes my way. Such an opportuni ty MAY present itself, and I am preparing for the possibility by offerin g for sale my last personal Italian Masi Gran Criterium. I tracked this bike from the day I first saw it in 1972 until I purchased it from the o riginal owner in 1998. The bike was delivered to the original owner afte r a one year wait. The bike is a 1971 (First generation) GC in light met allic blue. It's an M53 (actual c-t is 52.5cm, 53cm TT, and 9cm stem) an d this bike was ordered with the special optional scheeren weltmeister ( balsa wood filled) rims in the typical Masi 36 holes and cross 4 pattern .
There are almost no nicks on this bike whatsoever. The bike probably has less than 2000 miles on it; and I've ridden her once or maybe twice in my 10 year ownership. The white factory handlebar tape is still intact, including the factory installed end plugs which are corks covered in whi te plastic tape. The saddle shows very little wear and all the yellow tr im accent paint is on the cable ends and brake cable clips. The FW was f itted with a lower cog at the bike shop prior to delivery, so that one c able end is not original. Still intact is the gray plastic cable holder gadget (actually Italian wire ties that they found laying around in the Vigorelli shop, left behind by electricians at some point). Toe straps o riginal and still riveted on the ends just as they leave the Vigorelli. Original brake hoods are there but rotted. The only non original anythin g on the bike are the tires. The hoods need to be replaced. Masi GC wate r bottle that came with it is included. Top separated from bottle but st ill almost new.
This bike rides very nicely, unlike many of the frames down around 50cm or so. This is a great bike in as original condition as you will find an ywhere in the world, I'm reasonably sure. Price, $5,500 cash.
Thanks for listening. I know someone would love to make this bike their new baby.
Brian Baylis
La Mesa, CA