1996 Merlin XLM

GearlessinSeattle · Dec 16, 2011

I bought this off MTBR a couple of weeks ago.
It came with a bunch of Rasta parts but what I really wanted was the frame.
This is its first incarnation.
I will switch the jockey pulleys to black or red and I may trade out the TiTec stem for a Syncros.
The wheels may get traded as well.
I like the red accents but may go for a all black simple look.
Tires will be switched out as well.

Kestonian · Dec 16, 2011

One of my all time favourite frames of all time

Somehow, Merlins look best with black (to my eyes, anyway) but it could just be that I would love those brakes on my Fat Chance!

Great find.

classen · Dec 17, 2011

The non drive side crank arm needs to be black

GearlessinSeattle · Dec 17, 2011

classen":2uur10ni said:
The non drive side crank arm needs to be black

Never thought about that but it would be cool.
Guess I never should have sold my black one.

beechdaleboy · Dec 17, 2011

i love the wheels on that

mrkawasaki · Dec 18, 2011

Interesting - I didn't realise the production XLM came out in 1994. I don't remember it being in the model year catalogue, although there's an MBA Mountain review mentioning a proto in 1993... scurries off to check available facts!

GearlessinSeattle · Dec 18, 2011

So after talking with the original owner last week and just getting the original paper work I have now realized that it is a 96 and not a 94.
Hey ordered it in 10/96 and picked it up in 12/96.
His original purchase price was $4700us built.

About what it would be to build it now I suppose.
CK Wheelset
Syncros cranks
Paul Brakes and levers.
I took it for a ride today and it is strange going back to a 26er after riding my 29er and cross bike so much.
But I do love it.

RockiMtn · Dec 22, 2011

Kestonian":32i1al0c said:
One of my all time favourite frames of all time

Somehow, Merlins look best with black (to my eyes, anyway) but it could just be that I would love those brakes on my Fat Chance!

Great find.

Have to agree. Dunno why, but not a fan of overly loud colours on a Merlin.

1996 Merlin XLM

GearlessinSeattle

Senior Retro Guru

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