Eddy Merckx Corsa

February 26, 2019

Eddy Merckx Corsa

Eddy Merckx Corsa

The Real Deal

EDDY MERCKX Corsa, 1986

In this great avocation, it is a real treat for me to come across a frame that I’ve admired and desired, and in my size. This is such a frame, from the great Eddy Merckx.

This frame is from the era influenced by Ugo DeRosa, who built frames for Eddy, and also helped him establish his frame building operation. As the top professional rider for many years, Eddy knew a great deal about the performance of a bike; what worked, and what did not. When he set about building frames to carry his name, his intent was to build frames without compromise.

Found as a bare frame and fork, this Corsa was straight and unmolested, but the paint was in a very sad state. A repaint was in order, and I decided to give it some commemorative elements, in honor of Eddy Merckx.

The paint scheme is FAEMA inspired; to my design, painted by Keith Anderson, before his retirement. Included in the paint is the number “525,” which is the tally of Eddy’s professional wins. In the photographs the bike wears number 51, which is the number Eddy rode to his first professional victory.

When I acquired the frame the rear end had been set to 130mm, so I kept that and built the bike with a Campagnolo 10 speed group. This is a truly great group; reliable, precise, quick in use, and easy to maintain. Designed and built in the finest Campagnolo tradition.

I recently completed the first ride, and the bike does not disappoint.

Riding, the bike feels light and nimble, and is immediately responsive to rider input. Fast and comfortable on the level, it descends exceptionally well; solid, predictable, and quick. And it climbs well! The refined nature of the frame is quite easily felt, and greatly reassuring when charging downhill.

The feel is that of a thoroughbred Tour racer; fast, stable, and good for all day. I’m looking forward to many happy miles with this one.

Enjoy the view.