advice on vitus 979

sheise said:

I'm thinking about buying a Vitus 979, but I have heard that they can flex a lot with heavier riders. I'm weigh about 185, would this bike be a bad idea for me? thanks for any advice.

I'm not sure. Back in the 70's, before Gary Klein made the first fat tube aluminum bike frame, Vitus produced a bunch of bonded aluminum frames. They had tube sizes that were similar to a steel frame, were finished by anodising and they were absolutely beautiful. "Noodle" is a good word to describe their riding characteristics. They were proof that an aluminum frame doesn't have to be stiff to the point of being harsh.

I had one in the 80s when they were first introduced, not the 70s. Used to tt on it( still have the photos). They were flexy by todays standards, but as said earlier not as harsh. If getting one- I presume an old one- be careful of the bonding in the lugs. Have heard stories of it disintegrating over time. Check the frame out before buying.