It's classic, not plastic

-
This Fondriest bike has been my loyal companion for more than 21 years. I nicknamed it 'giallorossa' for its colours (it means 'red and yellow' in Italian) which are also the colours of my favourite soccer team, AS Roma.
This bike is now in Italy and I keep using it during my summer holidays over there.
It is still a great bike and I changed just a few components from the day I bought it.
I used it in Italy, UK and Australia before I purchased a new Trek bike.
It never deceived me and it has been a very reliable bike so far. It is not for sure the best bike of its time but I have such a particular attachment to this piece of metal that reminds me my youth when I had no responsibilities.
It is classic because is made of steel and it does not share anything with the fancy bikes you can find today.
Bought with the first money I made while I was studying at uni, it accompanied me during the most important phases of my life. It helped me to overcome the sad moments of my life.
Despite a few chips it is still running great and it still serves me very well for my long and tough rides in Italy. For sure the weight it is not comparable with the modern bikes but I always use to say to my friends that it is cheaper and healthier to loose a couple of kilos from your body rather than buying a lighter bike.

Comments

gpashe said…
Hi - I have recently got an identical frame. Can you recall the seatpost diameter. 26.8mm or 27.0mm?
March 26, 2021 at 6:38 AM
Giovanni said…
When I will go back to Italy, I will measure it.
March 26, 2021 at 6:51 AM
gpashe said…
Ha ha - thank you
March 27, 2021 at 1:14 AM
Giovanni said…
Jokes apart, I would try to contact the manufacturer at https://www.fondriestbici.com/
The model of the bike is MegaChrome 1998 (I bought it in 1998 but I think the model could be from 1997).
March 30, 2021 at 7:20 AM
gpashe said…
Hi - I did contact them. They have no info pre-2006 when the brand was bought by another group )-: I am going to buy a cheap 26.8mm seatpost and see is that correct fit...
March 31, 2021 at 5:58 PM
Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Munda Biddi adventure for "Vivere per Amare"

-
I've decided to take on the incredible journey of riding the Munda Biddi trail from Perth to Albany (~1100km) from 15/4! But this adventure is about more than just the thrill of the ride. I have been preparing for weeks for this and only now I decided to dedicate this journey to my cousin Gianluca Latini, who left us far too soon 12 years ago due to a rare endocrine tumor, at only 39. I hope this ride will help honor his  memory and raise awareness about endocrine and neuroendocrine diseases. I've set up a GoFundMe page to support the association established in Gianluca's name, 'Vivere per amare - Gianluca Latini' (Live to Love). Every contribution helps, no matter the size. If you'd like to join me in making a difference, here's the link:  https://gofund.me/ae7d4661 Thank you all for your support and encouragement on this meaningful journey! Together, let's ride for a cause.
Read more

The adventure starts tomorrow

-
Image
less than 24 days before my adventure starts and I have mixed feelings: excited for the new experience and worried at the same time. Every time I go out with the bike, even for a short ride, the thought that I cannot make it is always there. However, on this occasion, it is not just the fear of physical exhaustion, but thinking about where to find food, water and if I will be able to rest properly while camping outdoors. I will share my journey with two friends, Richard and Waeel. We trained together and hopefully we will be able to enjoy every bit of it. In the picture I depicted the track of my first day. I have the ambition to start from the doorstep of my house! Do not forget my fundraiser: https://gofund.me/ae7d4661 You can check my progress here: https://giovanni.maprogress.com/mundabiddiforvivereperamare
Read more