Description
Eddy Merckx Titanium AX – Serial #21687 – Brushed Titanium with Classic Merckx Graphics “Timeless Excellence”
Born from an extraordinary collaboration between cycling legend Eddy Merckx and titanium masters Litespeed, this AX frame represents the perfect marriage of European racing heritage and American craftsmanship. Dating from the early 2000s era of their partnership (as indicated by serial number 21687 and originally fitted Dura-Ace 7700 components), this frame represents a special moment when Old World precision met New World innovation. Every tube angle and junction reflects Merckx’s legendary attention to detail, while Litespeed’s titanium expertise brings his vision to life through immaculate welds and precision-machined dropouts.
The Ride Pure titanium delivers that magical combination of liveliness and stability that makes these frames so sought after. The expert craftsmanship shines through in the way this frame handles, offering that perfect balance of performance and comfort that has made these collaboration frames particularly coveted among collectors and riders alike. This isn’t just a bike frame – it’s a piece of cycling history where Old World racing heritage meets New World materials innovation.
Condition Frame presents in very good to excellent condition, a testament to careful ownership and titanium’s inherent durability. No structural damage or deep marks are present. Cosmetic considerations are limited to some wear on the original decals and a light polished area on the drive-side chainstay where previous chain rub was professionally buffed out. The brushed titanium finish remains clean and consistent throughout, and all threads, braze-ons, and mounting points are in pristine condition.
Workshop Wisdom What sets this frame apart is the remarkable harmony between Merckx’s race-proven design and Litespeed’s titanium mastery. The flawless welds, particularly around the bottom bracket and head tube junctions, showcase Litespeed’s reputation for exceptional titanium fabrication. The precisely machined dropouts and cable stops aren’t just functional – they’re a testament to the no-compromise approach these collaborative frames received. This wasn’t just another titanium frame; it was built to honor both Merckx’s exacting standards and Litespeed’s metallurgical expertise.
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
- Top Tube: 58cm (center-to-center) – Large
- Seat Tube: 60.5cm (top-to-center)
- Down Tube: 63.5cm (center-to-center)
- Head Tube: 16cm
- Chainstays: 41.5cm
- Built for 700c wheels
Frame Details
- Material: US-made titanium by Litespeed
- Rear Spacing: 130mm
- Bottom Bracket Shell: 68mm Italian threading
- Distinctive Merckx geometry
- Original brushed finish with original Merckx graphics
- weight: 3.5lbs
Building Requirements
- Headset: 30mm external cup
- Bottom Bracket: Italian threading
- Seatpost: 27.2mm
- Front Derailleur: 34.9mm (13/8″) clamp, bottom pull
- Brakes: Standard caliper
What’s Included
- Water bottle mounting hardware
- Braze-on rear derailleur mount
- Rear derailleur cable guides
- Shimano down-tube adjustable cable stops
- Braze-on seat clamp with bolts
Is This Your Bike Thing? For the discerning cyclist who appreciates the perfect blend of European racing heritage and American titanium craftsmanship. Contact me to discuss making this legendary frame part of your collection.
Cross-Platform Content Keywords: Eddy Merckx, Titanium AX, Road Bike, Custom, Handmade, Litespeed, Classic, Racing, Belgian
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Video Tags: Merckx Frame, Titanium Bicycle, Road Bike, Custom Frame, Classic Bicycle