2nd Merlin Prestige 1996 Build Thread

[pwebb]

Having previously renovated a 1997 Prestige (https://www.retrobike.co.uk/threads/merlin-prestige-1997-project-thread.488324/) I couldn't resist this one from RB member @DalryBikeDepot ...

frame number confirms 1996 build but apart from decals this is ostensibly the same frameset.

Condition of the paintwork is a little bubbly in places and has definitely seen some use.



... a couple of hours scrubbing with a combination of autoglym paint renovator and blue T-Cut later, looking a little more respectable and possible to keep as-is without a re-paint IMHO

 

[pwebb]

fitted a new Tange threaded headset and specsheet* correct UN52 BB




*I will go for the 'Expert'/'Pro' spec from back in the day ( mostly XT ) but minus the V brakes as I much prefer cantis. I think I have most of what I need for a period correct build - to be continued...

 

[sam_white]

Would you share the frame number from this please? It may help to identify other Merlin frames from around the same time, many seem to have lost their stickers over the years.

 

[pwebb]

Would you share the frame number from this please? It may help to identify other Merlin frames from around the same time, many seem to have lost their stickers over the years.

PM sent wrt frame no. Fwiw I contacted Merlin last week to see if they kept any decals, but they sold out years ago apparently.
I guess we could collectively commission some remakes from Gil or similar, but for the moment I am thinking of keeping this one as-is without repainting.
Cheers, P

 

[pwebb]

build weekend: assembled period XT group that I reconditioned recently, plus some salvaged parts from similar age DB Axis - that have same size steerer and seat post etc. Since I am not repainted this one, makes sense to use a reconditioned set of parts. It will be 3x8 drivetrain and XT throughout.


the only thing I need to change was the BB as the UN52 wasn't long enough to prevent the XT triple chainset from fouling the chainstay - so went for a slightly longer 118mm 'modern' sealed BB from ZTTO ( and saved quite a bit of weight in the process)

I used period cable outers to stop this looking like a restomod and the only other concession to 2025 was a brand new ( and again much lighter) freewheel and chain...

...

 

[pwebb]

Shakedown ride round the block confirms these frames are amongst the very best - lively without being harsh, comfortable without being too relaxed, feels as tight as when it was new and good for another 30 years no doubt

final build pics: