Description
“Titanium Symphony”
This rare Macalu Cirrus titanium frame represents the pinnacle of American titanium craftsmanship, manufactured by Merlin for Excel Sports Boulder during the early 2000s. Serial #79787 (with marking “57”) connects you to Merlin’s legendary expertise in titanium fabrication, boasting the same double-butted 3/2.5 titanium tubing design that made the Merlin Extralight one of the most coveted frames of its era. This isn’t just a titanium frame; it’s a meticulously crafted piece of cycling history.
The Ride
The distinctive S-bend seat stays (visible from behind) combined with the subtly flared chainstays deliver the magical ride quality that made Merlin frames legendary – responsive yet supremely comfortable, lively yet never harsh. At a svelte 1370 grams (3lbs), the frame’s titanium construction provides natural vibration damping while ensuring excellent power transfer. This creates a ride experience that transforms ordinary roads into silky pathways and makes every pedal stroke feel effortless.
Workshop Wisdom
The signature S-bend seat stays that distinguish this frame when viewed from behind are a hallmark of Merlin’s design philosophy – form follows function. This subtle shaping provides vertical compliance while maintaining the lateral stiffness needed for spirited riding, showcasing the true potential of titanium when in the hands of master framebuilders.
Condition
Frame is in excellent condition throughout with clean, intact welds showing the master craftsmanship Merlin was renowned for. The brushed titanium finish remains pristine with minimal signs of use at cable contact points. No dents, cracks or structural issues – just the beautiful patina that only comes from titanium aging gracefully.
Before You Buy – A Note from Paul
Every frame I sell has been personally inspected and honestly described, but I want you to be 100% confident in your decision. Please take a moment to watch the detailed video included with this listing. Due to the personal nature of frame fit and the cost of shipping, I cannot accept returns. That’s why I encourage you to reach out to me directly with any questions, whether they’re about dimensions, condition, or build suggestions. I’m Paul – not a chatbot, not a sales team, just a fellow cyclist who wants to make sure this frame finds the right home. Let’s talk about this frame and make sure it’s perfect for you before you buy.
Sizing & Fit
- Suitable for riders approximately 5’11” to 6’2″
- Top Tube: 58cm (center-to-center)
- Seat Tube: 59cm (top-to-center)
- Head Tube: 140mm
- Down Tube: 63.5cm (center-to-center)
- Chainstays: 42cm (center-to-center)
- Rear Spacing: 130mm
Frame Details
- Serial #79787
- Material: 3/2.5 Titanium (aerospace-grade alloy with 3% aluminum, 2.5% vanadium)
- Rear Spacing: 130mm
- Clean, consistent straight-gauge, non-tapered main triangle tubing (1.37″ diameter)
- S-bend seat stays visible from rear view
- Flared chainstays for optimal power transfer
- Weight: Impressively light at just 1350 grams (2.6lbs)
- Original finish: Brushed titanium
- External headset (not integrated)
Building Requirements
- Headset: External, 34mm
- Bottom Bracket: English threaded (68mm)
- Seatpost: 27.2mm diameter
- Front Derailleur: 35mm clamp-on
- Brakes: Standard road caliper
What’s Included
Seat clamp – Cable guides – Frame
Is This Your Bike Thing?
For those who understand that titanium’s allure lies in its perfect balance of performance and timeless durability, this Macalu Cirrus represents the opportunity to own a piece of Merlin craftsmanship at an accessible price point. Ready to experience what made Merlin frames the benchmark for titanium excellence?
Cross-Platform Content:
Keywords: Macalu, Cirrus, Merlin, Extralight, Titanium, Excel Sports, Boulder, custom, handmade, Brushed Titanium, bicycle frame, road, American-made, 57cm, 58cm, 3/2.5 titanium, double-butted
Hashtags: #MerlinTitanium #TitaniumFrame #CustomBikes #RoadCycling #BikeLife #CyclingCommunity #VintageBicycle #ExcelSports #FrameBuilder #BikeCollection
Video Tags: Macalu Frame, Titanium Bicycle, Road Bike, Custom Frame, American-made Bicycle, Merlin Extralight