I’ve been able to get a handful of rides on the bike in the past week, and am very happy with how it rides.
The ride quality is sublime - smooth, stable and very comfortable. I’m hooked!
There is no discernible frame flex when I get out of the saddle for short climbs, and the handling is incredible.
This bike is easily my favorite bike, tied with the Tommasini Tecno (of the same era) that I rode from ‘98-‘01.
I would be curious to ride a MXL for comparison, but cannot imagine how it could be any better.
Viva Merckx!!!!!!