We’ve had just a few good Litespeed bikes featured right here in Readers’ Rigs over time however at this time’s reader John takes the prize because the oldest Litespeed rig featured, being a ‘Group Challenge’ bike from again in 2000 that he’s lovingly cared for and ridden for the final 20 plus years.
Title: John R Petrocik
Location: Carlsbad, California USA
Bike: Litespeed Group Challenge
Groupset: Campagnolo Refrain 11-speed
Wheels: Mavic Open Professional with Continental Grand Prix 4000S2
Pedals: Look Keo
Saddle: Avocet O40 Air Ti
Weight: Roughly 18.5 kilos, per my lavatory scale. (8.4kgs)
When did you purchase it?
I purchased the bike within the Spring of 2000 from Colorado Bicycle owner. It was reported to have the geometry of the Litespeed Basic of that interval with some customized tubes for the Colorado Bicycle owner racing crew that used it as their experience (therefore the “Group Challenge” designation).
What made you select this bike?
Every part I ever learn or heard about titanium made me consider it was the last word body materials. The popularity of Litespeed was additionally an element.
John’s Litespeed in its unique livery earlier than Joe Bell’s new paint scheme.
What modifications/additions have you ever accomplished?
It has had many modifications and upgrades. I swapped my 9-speed Refrain group and all of the elements from the Trek I used to be driving on the time to the Litespeed. In subsequent years, I changed that 9-speed Refrain setup with two successive 10-speed Refrain parts, culminating with the present 11-speed compact drivetrain. Saddles and wheelsets had been additionally periodically changed. The most important change in its look occurred within the Winter of 2010 when It was repainted by Joe Bell as a result of the unique paint started to crack and chip.
What parts are you working?
Campagnolo Refrain 11-speed, with 50-34 cranks and a 12-27 set of cogs within the rear.
What number of miles/kilometers do you do a yr?
I at present experience about 3,500 miles a yr.
What do you’re keen on about this bike?
Its distinctive and cozy experience is extra giving than metal however extra energetic than carbon. And, to inform the entire fact, I take pleasure in driving one thing apart from the carbon with which I’m surrounded. Its distinctive shade can also be a plus.
Favourite driving space?
Alongside the coast of the Pacific Ocean. That have is troublesome to beat. It’s what makes California livable.
Favourite driving expertise in your bike?
Essentially the most memorable rides had been the a number of instances that I participated within the Boonville Pageant Experience close to Columbia, Missouri. It happens yearly in August, giving contributors an immensely pleasing experience alongside rolling roads and thru charming small communities.
Future upgrades?
I’m in all probability going to exchange the Open Professional wheel set with a pair of Fulcrums. I had a Fulcrum wheelset on it prior to now, and want to experience them once more.
Final phrases?
We must always all love the bikes we experience.
John placing his rig via its paces.
Smart phrases certainly from John there and thanks for sharing your experience with. Obtained a motorbike that you just love? Properly how about sharing it with fellow PEZ followers and getting it featured in Readers’ Rigs so we are able to all stare at it! Ship us a Readers’ Rigs submission direct to [email protected] and your bike could possibly be featured in all its glory right here on the pages of PEZ.
Like PEZ? Why not subscribe to our weekly e-newsletter to obtain updates and reminders on what’s cool in street biking?
