MASIBLOG

Masi Speciale CX love

2009-11-20T11:42:00.000-08:00

We received this really cool photo and short note this morning in our email this morning from Masi owner Shane Farthing;

Here's my Masi CX fully loaded, on a ride from the Pittsburgh suburbs to DC on the Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Trail. The bike carried the load and road like a dream for all 385 miles of trail.

Shane, we're super happy you're as happy with your Speciale CX as we are about making them- it's a great bike and one that has built a great reputation out on the road (and trail).

Thanks for sharing with us- we love hearing from happy owners, so keep'em coming!

Small is the new big?

2009-11-18T20:52:00.000-08:00

Well, been talking about it for months and months now, but the first production samples of the new Mini-Velo series of bikes is finally here. We're still not sure what kind of release date these bikes might see- if any- but we're certainly looking to see why these bikes are so "huge in Japan".

The Mini-Velo is a very popular category of bike in Asia, and not just because the population is often times less tall than in North America and some other regions. The Mini-Velo is a popular option to folding bikes in tight urban environments. The smaller wheels create a smaller bike, but without compromising ride quality. The bikes are easier to get on and off of trains and subways, or in and out of small apartments, offices, elevators or up and down stairwells. They aren't as compact as a folding bike, but the ride quality is more like a rigid framed bike.

Here in the US and other densely populated areas, the Mini-Velos are beginning to catch on in markets not previously used to them. Many parts of Europe are now seeing a growing interest in the bikes as well. Does this mean that your local Masi retailer will soon have a fleet of Masi Mini-Velo bikes? Well, not yet... but possibly in the near future. If you're desperate for one now, all you need to do is fly to Japan, Korea or Taiwan where the bikes are already being sold. It's a little expensive, sure, but then you can be ahead of all the other cool kids in class!

My own new test rig- it's gonna be far from "stock" soon enough! I'm gonna give it a shot as a polo bike- seems there is a growing interest in the Mini-Velo bikes for polo. The very quick handling, short turning radius and lower center of gravity appeal to many players. So I'm gonna give it a whack and see what happens.

Big wheels are good, but sometimes small wheels are just as good!

Stay tuned for more...

Winter bikes

2009-11-12T15:30:00.000-08:00

Winter can be a wet and ugly affair in many places around the country, but why should that keep you from riding year round? Most of us are not made of sugar and will not melt in the rain or sloppy snow. With that in mind, why give up riding simply because things get cold and/ or wet?

Many people have differing thoughts on what makes a great winter bike, but there are several things worth considering when looking at a new winter bike.

It's certainly nice to keep your rump a little dryer by using fenders. Looking for a bike either with fenders or with mounts that allow attaching fenders is highly recommended. At minimum, it's recommended to at least find something with enough clearance to use some of the slimmer snap/ strap on fenders.
With winter roads often strewn with debris or slippery from snow, ice or rain, a very stable footed bike is beneficial. Bikes with longer wheelbases tend to provide that extra bit of handling security when things are less than favorable.
Similar to fender mounts, rack mounts are a nice plus if you're commuting in the winter- being able to attach racks and panniers to the bike is a big plus for carrying dry clothes or extra bad weather gear. Let's face it, sometimes no matter how well prepared you are when you leave the house, the weather can turn ugly and potentially ruin your ride. Having that extra back up and dry storage for extra clothes or precious cargo can be a lifesaver.
Another key feature is either the existence of, or ability to add, wider tires- in bad weather, any tire narrower than 25mm is going to be at greater risk of puncturing or slipping in bad conditions. It's best to ride tires at least 25mm wide, but 28's and above are even better if the frame has enough clearance for the wider tire.

Those are just a few basics and some people will place greater importance on on some over others, but they serve as a good baseline as you begin your hunting.

And while you're hunting, why not consider one of the following bikes while you're at it;

Speciale Randonneur- fenders included and rack mounts for bringing along all the fixins'. The retro touring styling provides a nice long wheelbase for stability and balance when carrying the heavy loads.

Speciale Commuter- fixed or free, with a long wheelbase for a stable ride and all the braze-ons for racks and fenders. There are those who say that in the worst of conditions, a fixed gear is the ultimate choice since you are not as dependent on a brake pad for stopping. In extreme cold, especially, some folks feel that traditional rubber brake pads become virtually useless and leg braking with a fixed gear provides substantial "back up".

Speciale CX- with a longer wheelbase than a traditional road bike and tons of room for wide tires, the CX is a great all-weather bike. With the rack and fender mounts, it's a great do-anything bike too.

SoulVille 10- the 10spd drivetrain and elegant, simple fenders create an excellent look and feel for a bad weather bike. The more upright and relaxed riding position creates a very stable feel as well.

SoulVille 7- the internal gearing adds another level of convenience and efficiency for bad weather riding. With the same frame as the 10spd, you maintain the same fenders and rack mounts for all your inclement riding needs.

SoulVille 3- need fewer gears than the 7spd or 10spd? Live in a mostly flat area where you need fewer gears? Then the 3spd is your answer. With all the bells and whistles seen on its big brothers and sisters, the 3spd is also an able icky condition rider.

Caffe Racer Doppio (10spd)- the Caffe Racer series is designed as a quick handling flat bar road/ fitness bike. The longer wheelbase is built into an agile geometry for quick handling. Even with the rack and fender mounts in full use, the bikes remain lively and nimble.

Caffe Racer Solo (9spd)

CXR- designed as a competitive cross race bike, the CXR can easily pull double duty as a rainy/ snowy all-purpose bike. Without rack and fender mounts, there is still plenty of room for streamlined fenders and lots of room for wide tires. The racing geometry makes the CXR super quick and an excellent winter road training bike, as well as a great bike for getting into the mud.

***

We may be based in rainless southern California, but we know a little bit about how to design bikes for less than perfect weather. So don't let the winter months put an end to your riding bliss- when done right, even riding in less than perfect weather can be a lot of fun.

Masi in Thailand

2009-11-06T13:43:00.000-08:00

This is too cool not to share;

It's nice to have friends and fans!

So we'd like to say hello to our friends in Thailand and thanks for your support!

Coltello = Legal Speed!

2009-10-28T18:16:00.001-07:00

The Masi Coltello is an amazing machine- a pure bred track frameset with a need for going really, really fast. The geometry is designed for steep tracks and immediate responses to rider input- the high bottom bracket is perfect for steep banked tracks so that you don't smack a pedal when deep in the turns or while maneuvering through the field.

The aluminum tubing used on the frame is plenty aero and even more importantly incredibly stiff. The rectangular chainstays provide massive stiffness for sprinting power with zero flex. The aero, teardropped shape of the seat stays provides stiffness and is aero enough to not slow you down when off the front in clean air. With the large aero shaped downtube and seat tube, the entire frame is slippery enough to be efficient in the wind when the smallest of margins can be the difference between first and second.

Another frame feature that aids the Coltello's dominance of the velodrome is the shaped top tube with the groove that runs the entire length of the tube top and bottom. This shaping helps the top tube resist the massive forces riders place on a frame when sprinting out of the saddle- especially when using steel or oversized carbon sprint bars. We also use an aluminum steer tube on the carbon leg fork to further minimize flex in the front of the frame- let's face it, flex means power loss and power loss is a bad thing in track racing.

What do all these design features mean? It means that the frames are incredibly stiff and aero enough to be ridden at the highest levels of the sport... all with a price that actually leaves you with enough money to actually afford some great race wheels and a few entry fees. And for all the riders looking for an urban fixed gear frame with more stiffness for aggressive riding, the Coltello will deliver more than just a little style with all that stiffness.

So if you're looking for a quality aluminum track frameset that can beat the super expensive carbon framesets to the finish line, or an urban frameset that will stand up to all the abuse you can possibly apply to the pedals... the Coltello is the answer to your search.

They're here!!!!

2009-10-20T09:22:00.000-07:00

At long last, the Masi Retro jersey is now in stock and ready to ship as I type! Visit your local retailer to order now before this first round batch is all gone (second round order will be going in fairly soon).

Pertinent details;
Made for us by the fine folks at Canari Cyclewear
Made with DryCore material and a full zipper
Sizing runs SM, MD, LG, XL and XXL
Fit is the "relaxed" fit- slightly looser, but not baggy
*MSRP* - $65.00

(front)

(back)

The first round is likely to sell out quickly, so grab one now... or be patient for the second batch!

MSRP may vary from retailer to retailer and does not take into consideration any shipping/ handling fees that may be associated. Check with your retailer for details.

Masi to the moon?

2009-10-17T19:16:00.001-07:00

Got a great email from a member of the Masi Owners Family- Joe Marinelli;

Hey Tim,

I did a ride today where I got to go to some area's of the Kennedy Space Center that aren't open to the public and snapped this photo with my camera. Thought you might enjoy it.
That launch pad in the background actually has a shuttle and boosters mated up to it that are going to launch this week.

- Joe

I love this kind of email and I thank Joe for sending the note and the pic.

Tim

Masi Bellissima on Bicycling.com!

2009-10-15T11:55:00.000-07:00

We always love a little kindness from our friends at the various cycling publications around the globe... who wouldn't, right?

Well, this is a pretty sweet little snapshot of that love...

Bicycling came by the booth during Interbike this year and checked out the new Bellissima series of women's road bikes we're so proud of. We're very proud of our bikes, of course, but it's great to see that Bicycling "gets" what our bikes are about- we don't sacrifice the geometry that we have spent years developing just to fit a smaller rider. We hold fast to the firm belief that fitting a woman or other smaller rider to a bike shouldn't mean compromising what you believe works for a "men's bike". Our bikes are still built around geometries that we believe produce a balanced and enjoyable riding experience, but we make them suitable to smaller riders by using shorter stems, shorter crank arms, narrower bars, zero offset seatposts and brake levers with shorter reach. The net result is a bike that fits smaller riders without having to use geometries that don't fit with our philosophy of "it's all about the ride".

Thank you to Bicycling.com for coming by the booth in Vegas and checking out the bikes- we hope that all of you will be as impressed with the bikes as Bicycling was (and we'll get working on that review they hint at too).

Outdoor Demo East

2009-10-04T20:29:00.000-07:00

Alright, all you bike loving- especially Masi loving- New Englanders. This week is Outdoor Demo East in Providence, Rhode Island at Roger Williams Park. We- Masi and Haro- will be there with a full fleet of demo bikes to test ride. The first two days of the event are open to the bike trade only, but Saturday and Sunday are open to the public. So come on out and test ride a Masi, or Haro, and say howdy. While you're there, grab a catalog to take home and mark your favorite/s bike/s down for Santa to bring you for Christmas... you have been good, right?

Feast your eyes on the beauty!

2009-09-30T19:13:00.001-07:00

Fresh off of a very successful Interbike, we are very pleased to announce that the website here has been updated with all of the new products shown there at the show in Vegas.

Feel free to stroll through the bikes here and feast your eyes on the amazing beauty of the very best line-up of bikes we've ever put together. We are confident you will be impressed with the collection of bikes you see here.

A downloadable pdf of the new catalog will be available very soon as well- so stay tuned. Also, the much awaited web store will be coming online and functioning in the coming days. AND... the Masi Retro jerseys will be IN STOCK in the next few days, so get ready to ride with pride!

Tim

Kenda Pro Cycling p/b Spinergy at USPro National Championships

2009-09-01T09:49:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was the USPro National Championships in Greenville, South Carolina. The racing over the two days was amazing and hard fought with very worthy winners receiving stars and stripes jerseys in the time trial and road race events.

Dave Zabriskie of Garmin-Slipstream was the jersey winner- for the 4th time- in the time trial on Saturday, but Kenda's very own Matt Winstead (of Huntsville, AL) rode to a very impressive 11th place against a field of very motivated TT specialists. I met Matt during the team's training camp in Greenville last January and I can honestly say he's a great guy and tough rider who really earned that 11th place. Also in the TT for the Kenda boys, was newcomer Chris Monteleone who had previously been riding for the US National Team and finished a very respectable 20th.

(Matt Winstead heading for 11th... with a smile, no less.)

(Chris Monteleone about to launch himself down the start ramp.)

Sunday saw an emotional win in the road race by George Hincapie of Columbia-HTC as the early heat and later the rain added to the rapid attrition of the field. The multiple climbs up Paris Mountain continually cut the field apart and only the tough and determined made it to the finish. One of those riders making it to the finish was Kenda tough man Jake Rytlewski in 19th. Jake fought hard and stayed with an elite group of chasers in the closing laps of the race, proving his hard-as-nails reputation.

(Jake Rytlewski doing what he does best- riding hard in tough conditions.)

We're very proud of our boys in pinstripes and we're looking forward to seeing more strong results as the season comes to a close and in the future.

Check out this nice mention of the team on PezCyclingnews.com as well.

Tim

(All photos with the permission of James Thomas of Bicycle Design.)

Masi Lifestyle Video

2009-08-10T09:27:00.000-07:00

Enjoy this lovely little video from our time in Minneapolis!

Masi Lifestyle- Minneapolis from Masi Bicycles on Vimeo.

Video credit to Nathan Freeman.

Tim

International Masi Love

2009-07-26T19:44:00.000-07:00

I just returned from a sales meeting in Melbourne Australia with our distributor there- Pacific Brands- and their retailers. It was a great visit, albeit short, and I thoroughly enjoyed my time there.

Being in Australia really helped to solidify the recognition of the fact that Masi is a global brand and that we have customers and fans around the world. The following emails and pictures push that fact home even further;
(From Bas in the Netherlands...)

Hey Tim,

A while ago you replied to my question about the size of a Speciale Sprint. I ended up ordering a 60cm and it took a few weeks to build it up, but I still owed you a few shots from it. Guess that for now it's still one of the very few Masi's in the European Union... :-)

For my work I travel around Europe and the bike happened to be finished just before a week long trip to southern Italy, so I decided to bring it along. When I took it out of it's travel bag on the sidewalk out front of the hotel the maitre d' of the hotel restaurant exclaimed "Spettacolare!", which is probably the best way to summarize how I feel about the bike.

There are still some minor cosmetical changes that I'd like to make to the bike (shortening the steerer tube, front wheel laced radially, etc.), but in general it's running as smooth as butter.

(From Mark Williamson, in Fremantle Australia)

Hi Tim

Just a quick message to say a big thanks for coming all the way over to the Pacific Brands 2010 trade show in Melbourne, it is not often that we get the chance to speak to the guys behind the product we sell. Not sure if you would remember me as you would have spoken to allot of store owners that day. I was the guy that suggested putting Campy Chorus or record on the Black steel _____ bike.

Any way the new range looks fantastic and my staff and I are looking forward the new models coming in store.

I have attached a picture of my pride and joy. I hope you like it ?

Many thanks again.

Regards Mark Williamson

Bike force Fremantle

Thanks to both Bas and Mark for helping to remind us of our (growing) international following. It's nice to step out of our little fishbowl once in awhile.

Tim

Bike Love- Jake Rytlewski

2009-07-15T09:04:00.000-07:00

Jake Rytlewski is one of the main riders for the Kenda Pro Cycling p/b Spinergy team that we proudly sponsor. Jake's a monster on the bike and is FAR stronger than his size would make you believe. Anyway, Jake is one helluva rider and has been around a few bikes during his racing career, so he's reasonably qualified to offer opinions on bikes- especially at the level he rides for a living.

Jake was recently on vacation and had his bike with him and sent the following email and picture;

Hey Tim,

I was on vacation this past weekend in Northern Michigan and I took this pretty cool photo of my bike with the Mackinac Bridge. Thought you might like to see it. I really like the ride of the bike, and look isn't that bad either.

Jake Rytlewski

How cool is that?

Thanks Jake- here's to hoping that the healed collar bone stays healed and that the rest of the season is filled with more wins!

Tim

SoulVille- the two-wheeled SUV of your dreams!

2009-07-07T15:13:00.000-07:00

Gas prices have been coming down in most places across the US, but with many of us still watching our expenses or simply trying to "think green", driving a few blocks (or even a few miles) to the local market is becoming less desirable.

Our SoulVille series of bikes are simply perfect for all those countless short-run errands many of us face daily or weekly. With the rack mounts, the SoulVille bikes are prefect for those trips to the market or the local farmer's market for fresh produce.

Why crank up the car and burn fuel when you can hit the road in style, save a few bucks and maybe even keep the planet around a little longer? With four fantastic models to choose from, the SoulVille series has something for everybody!

SoulVille/SS- single (or fixed) bliss!

SoulVille 3spd (mixte or "standard" frames available)- internally geared, simple, elegant and SO much fun to ride!

SoulVille 7spd- available in both Golden Green and Gloss Black in standard and mixte frame designs. Internal gears and coaster brake- low maintenance simplicity for urban living!

SoulVille 10spd- when you need more gear options and/ or want to ride a bit farther, the SoulVille 10 is a 10!

Tim

Chromesprints are GO!

2009-07-01T15:45:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, the Velo City Tour blasted into San Francisco and our good friends over at Chrome Bags were on the receiving end of the fun. The folks at Chrome do a fine job of detailing the activities- which look like they were amazingly fun (which leads to much jealousy here)- so I'll let them do the talking here.

Billy Souphorse Sinkford lays it down thusly;

Photo; Chrome

The Velo City Tour rolled through San Francisco this weekend in a flurry of bike related activity. The pre-party held at Chrome had over 300 folks attend- messengers and city bikers alike. At the party the centerpiece was the Chromesprints set up projecting on to the big screen. We raced over 60 people for 3 hours of mayhem. The wheels kept spinning till we had a winner who walked away with a new Warsaw backpack from Chrome Bags filled with beer and a cruiser bike from New Belgium Beer. Everyone had a great time and we look forward to doing it again soon. Stay tuned to the Chrome Bike Bulletin for news about upcoming events. Thanks to Masi Bikes for all the help and the bikes and to New Belgium for providing the 6 kegs we blew through during the night.

Dang! That sounds like more fun that a barrel of monkeys... monkeys with accordions and those little funny hats! To see more of the pictures from the night, check out the Chrome Dispatch photostream on Flickr.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Velo City Tour and the Chromesprints- and keep your eyes peeled for the black Chrome van cruising your streets.

Photo; Chrome

Tim

An early Christmas! Bellissima is here!

2009-06-30T10:43:00.000-07:00

We're not one to jump into "fads", so we like to take our time to investigate, listen and learn. We've been evaluating what has been happening in the market for the past few years, relative to the constant growth and evolution of the "women's specific" products out in the world. Some of what we've seen is really good and some is not as good- just like anything else in the world, there are "winners and losers".

We've taken our very stable, sturdy and reliable frame platforms used on the Alare and Gran Corsa bikes and have put our own twist on creating what we're proud to call our new Bellissima series of bikes.

The prevailing logic behind most bikes marketed to women is usually broken down into these simple words; "shrink and pink". Though it makes things easy to explain, it isn't exactly the best way to make a bike fit or ride well. The other drawback is that not every woman is shaped like every other woman, not do they all like pink. Ladies- help me out here.

Some of you gals have longer legs and shorter torsos- which is what has become the default basis for bikes designed for women. But that isn't the case for all of you, is it? See, the thing is, you ladies are no different than men- outside of the glaringly obvious ways- and come in all different shapes and sizes. If we're willing to accept that proper bike fit for a man requires a little time to set up, why would we simply expect to pull a small pink bike out of a box and assume it is "perfect" for a woman?

Using our Alare and Gran Corsa frames, and now a new smaller 48cm size of the current 3VC 105, we have created some options that are not just great for women but for any rider looking for a smaller bike. Rather than compromising geometries that we love so much and trust, we've added narrower handlebars, zero offset seatposts, shorter stems and brake/ shift levers with shorter reach. This creates an overall shorter/ smaller cockpit without requiring the use of geometries that place the rider too far forward or with head angles that create sloppy handling.

Gran Corsa Bellissima- Cielo Blue

Alare Bellissima- New Pearl White

Alare Bellissima- Rosa Pink (for thos who DO like pink!)

Here's the point; we want ALL of our bikes to handle and ride "like a Masi" because after all- it's all about the ride!

When you combine these new models with the step-through mixte options available with our SoulVille line, we've assembled a nice offering of bikes from race to relaxation. The all new Alare Bellissima and Gran Corsa Bellissima have just arrived and they are ready to ride! See your local retailer for details and get your hands on one of the sweetest new bikes on the market.

Tim

Too much beautiful

2009-06-24T11:50:00.000-07:00

A former boss of mine used to walk by a bunch of product laid out to look at and with his sense of humor say "too much beautiful" and just walk away.

Well, I have a hard time just walking away- all of us here have that problem.

The samples of our new products are here being photographed for the new catalog and we're now neck deep in too much beautiful.

Needless to say, you're going to be really happy with what you see... when you get to see it!

Tim

Who says being single is a bad thing?

2009-06-22T11:00:00.000-07:00

There are people "out there" who would have you believe that being single is a bad thing. Have you heard that song with the lyric "one is the loneliest number that you'll ever do"?

How misguided those poor souls are. Obviously they've never experienced the singular joy of riding a Masi fixed gear or single speed bike! For those who know, there really is nothing quite like the sweet joy of spinning along on a perfectly adjusted fixed gear/ single speed bike- the chain quietly rolling over the teeth of the cog and chainring, barely whispering a sound, and your pedal stroke in harmony with your Zen-like state of mind. Zipping through city streets with the quiet calm inside that only comes from the uncluttered mind of riding a single... it's more than just a little poetic in its beauty.

Speciale Fixed LTD

We don't just "make some fixed gears", we very much live and breathe the gammut of fixed gear/ single speed cycling. It's this level of connection to the bikes that allows us to create so many great bikes that are so enjoyable to ride.

Speciale Fixed- Shamrock Green

Whether you are bombing through the urban jungle humming "derailleurs are for failures" to yourself, or rolling the hills outside of town collecting winter training miles on a fixed gear to create the ultimate in suppleness and smoothness in your pedal stroke, we are on the same page with you.

Speciale Fixed- Metallic Yellow

If you just like the idea of getting out on a long country road- maybe even unpaved dirt or gravel- and need to remove ALL distractions from your ride, then the Speciale Commuter may be more your (single) speed.

Speciale Commuter- Metallic Blue

Speciale Commuter- Orange Creme

Sometimes, the ride to the corner market or the favorite java spigot requires a little more style than just a rusty old clunker (not that we don't love rusty old clunkers). If that's the case, then maybe you need to swing a leg over a SoulVille/ SS and let the graceful elegance of the curved steel tubing transport you to a new level of cool.

SoulVille/SS

Then there are those of you (like most of us here) who like to let their own inner Product Geek shine through and prefer to design and build your own wunder bike creation. For those of that inclination, we provide two amazing cool framesets to suit that desire. If you're creating the ultimate sprint beast for the banked boards of the velodrome, then the Coltello is the platform you have been seeking. With its high BB and aggressive geometry, the super stiff frame will launch you into the lead with such ease you'll swear you're on a bigger gear than you normally ride.

Coltello

There are some who prefer the unbridled sharpness of a race frameset even for their street/ city fixed gear bikes and for those we have the Speciale Sprint frameset. The smooth ride of the Reynolds 631 tubing makes the choppy streets seem a little more like the smooth surface of a polished pearl! And if you've been storing an old Campagnolo or Suntour Superbe Pro track group in a dusty box in your garage or under your bed, simply waiting for "that perfect steel track frame"... then wipe off the dust and get out your tub of white lithium grease!

Needless to say, we're kinda sweet on the whole fixed/ single thing. We love it and we live it. Hopefully you'll see the fruits of that love when you put your hands on one of the several bikes/ frames we have created for you.

Tim

RFK Criterium

2009-06-12T12:00:00.000-07:00

Pretty cool race around RFK Stadium in the Capital City. 1.2 mile course and flat as a pancake. Kenda rode great and we were active the whole race. We lined it up perfect at the end for yours truly but with 1 lap to go I flatted. Had great legs today and was in search of a great result. That's racing!

Chad B rode great and was top 10. After the race we spun around DC and did some sight seeing. We ran into the big motorcycle parade which was super cool. Its really cool to see everything in DC. Every time I come here I still get overwhelmed with the history and patriotism all around. What a feeling!

We packed up the car in route to Somerville and scooped Ty up in Philly on the way. A nice team dinner and now time for bed.

Feeling a bit under the weather for some reason tonight. Feel like I got a bit of a bug as well as my allergies being bad. Good nights rest should cure it.

Tour of Somerville tomorrow. Great race with lots of history. Time for some rest and I look for great things tomorrow.

M@
(Note; A little bit of a time warp here- this post was originally written by Marco Aledia back in late May, but just showed up! Ah, the joys of technology!)

Black Gold

2009-06-09T13:21:00.000-07:00

Carbon fiber has been touted as the miracle material for bicycles for decades now. Since the first carbon frames of the 80's up to now, people have been in love with the material and the potential it has always represented.

Not all frame designs or uses of carbon have been perfect- some frames and components have been too soft, too hard, too heavy, too ugly... yet we've continued to lust after the woven black carbon material. Manufacturing processes and designs have improved very dramatically over the years and we're still watching the evolution of carbon today. It's safe to say that we have not reached the end point yet, but where we are already is pretty darned nice!

Meet the Masi 3VC; constructed with a monocoque front triangle mated to the rear stays with lugs at the seat cluster and bottom bracket area. The ultra stiff and super light front triangle minimizes twisting at the head tube for sprinting power and cornering precision. The lugged rear end allows for fine-tuning of the ride; the rider of a 51cm bike doesn't require the same stiffness in the stays as the rider of a 61cm bike.

Speaking of rear stays... dig the curves on those seat stays. Looks sexy and adds to a ride that can only be described as "magical". The curve of the stays adds power to the rear brake by prevening the stay from "bowing" towards the seat tube when the rear brake is used. This means you get more braking power when you want it, instead of that braking power being absorbed by the frame. Those curves also help minimize the wheel skip that is common with carbon frames especially. Wheel skip is common on all rigid race bikes with short, quick stays, but carbon frames are especially prone to it since carbon has a naturally springy characteristic to it. With the stays curving away from the seat tube, rather than bending in towards the seat tube, they act as a lever helping the rear wheel hug the ground better over rough surfaces. Sure, no stay design can eliminate wheel skip completely, but a litle less skip is a great thing! An added benefit of the reduced skip is increased power transfer to the rear wheel and rear brake by virtue of the fact the wheel is contacting the ground more... pretty simple if you think about it.

Putting the shape of the stays aside, they provide excellent stiffness for climbing and sprinting but with the tuned lay-up of the carbon, they also provide just the right amount of comfort too. The frequently overused "stiff yet compliant", "rigid yet comfortable" and "firm yet supple" all come to mind... but they actually apply with the 3VC.

The 3VC series uses the exact same frame from the 105 up to the Team Issue- so you get the same race-proven frame from the least expensive model to the most expensive model. And, you're in good company when you ride a 3VC, since the Kenda Pro Cycling p/b Spinergy team has been racing on the 3VC for 3 years now and with great success along the way.

So whether your new bike budget is limitless or more modest, we've got a model ready to suit your riding needs. And if you're more the DIY type, you can even get the 3VC as a frameset and build up your own uber wunder bike!

The 3VC is light, stiff, compliant and drop-dead gorgeous... all the things you dream about in a dream bike, right?

A beautiful week in Minneapolis

2009-05-23T22:30:00.000-07:00

Masi spent the past week in Minneapolis getting countless excellent images and video for the upcoming Masi catalog and other projects. The weather during the week was about as good as anybody could possibly ever hope to experience and the people of Minneapolis who we worked with or encountered were amazingly warm and hospitable. All in all, it was an incredible week in an incredible city.

The week was filled with very long days of riding around the city from location to location; the rental car was only used for driving to and from the airport and the home base bike shop- Behind Bars. Days began with a quick breakfast and then a full day of getting bikes and riders prepped and ready and then riding through the amazing cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Most days of shooting did not wrap up until well into the evening, with daylight hanging on until close to 9:00PM. Evenings consisted of a nice dinner with the day's crew and then it was back to the hotel to review the photos captured during the day... as well as a few late night rides through the city. Five days proved to be barely enough to get all that we had hoped to, but with a final morning/ afternoon of shooting on Friday we were satisfied with our efforts... and very tired. We wished we would have had more time to get out and see even more of the cities and even more importantly had the chance to ride more.

In the end, we left Minneapolis with tons of great photographs for the catalog and lots of excellent video as well. We're itching to get back to Minneapolis already and hopefully will be there again sooner- rather than later.

The lovely ladies taking a rest between shoots.

One of my favorite icons of Minneapolis- the Grain Belt Beer sign.

Pete Demos- Creative Director- setting up the flashes and getting ready to make the magic happen.

Pete getting the long row of Masi bikes; props and customer bikes combined- a great sight!

Pete getting set up for a shoot on the night we got into town.

One of the more beautiful areas of downtown, at the Mill Ruins.

Spencer with the Speciale CX and a beautiful iron bridge along the river.

Trains are still a big part of the Minneapolis world- innumerable tons of freight come through the city via rail.

Doing my job- I apparently make for a pretty good tripod.

The LGR boys on their Coltello track frames; all three years of the frame represented!

Me with Chuck, Josh and Dan of Behind Bars at the end of a long week.

My very own Speciale Fixed looking quite happy in the Minnesota sun (it was a very happy bike).

Though there are countless people to thank, a few of the major ones are;
Behind Bars Bicycle Shop- our home base during the shoot, as well as our friends. Chuck Cowan and his guys at the shop kept the bikes running and ready for action.
Twin Six Alternative Cycling Apparel- clothing and accessories for the riders and Masi staff as well. Their clothing designs kept everybody looking good.
Banjo Brothers- bags and packs for the bikes and riders. Banjo Bros also helped to get us in touch with Twin Six, so they really did double duty. And the bags were great props for the shoots, as well as excellent tools for transporting gear to all corners of the city.
Lazer Helmets- our friends at Lazer generously provided helmets for the week's photo shoots as well. If you're riding your bike, please wear a helmet... and certainly give Lazer a look.
Spencer Haugh (and his lovely girlfriend Katrina) and the LGR Racing team- Spencer was not only one of the models, but he is also a member of the Masi-sponsored LGR Racing team and served as an excellent scout and guide. His help was invaluable on many levels.

Many more thanks are due, so check the Masiguy blog for more behind the scenes coverage.

Thank you again to all of our friends and fans in Minneapolis/ St. Paul- your help and friendship means more than words can express.

Tim

Masi Bicycles and Chrome Bags Join forces for Velo City Tour Goldsprints

2009-05-14T12:22:00.000-07:00

Masi Bicycles teams up with Chrome Bags

in support of the Chrome Velo City Tour Goldsprints.

********

Vista, CA- Masi Bicycles proudly announces their partnership with Chrome Bags to support the Chrome Velo City Tour Goldsprints, or “Chromesprints” as they may grow to be known this summer.

“When the opportunity to work with Chrome was presented to us, we immediately jumped”, stated Masi Brand Manager, Tim Jackson. “Chrome is indisputably one of the most iconic brands in the entire urban cycling world- that griffin and seat belt buckle bag strap is as recognizable as our headbadge!” Masi Bicycles has become a staple of the urban cycling scene over the past few years and this new relationship with Chrome is a perfect marriage of great brands. As Jackson said, “Chrome came to us for the bikes because they’re fans of the products we make and we said yes because we are fans of the products they make- it just makes so much sense on so many levels.”

Masi has provided Chrome with three of its very popular Speciale Fixed LTD bicycles to be used in the Goldsprints roller races that will take place in several cities including the Tour party in San Francisco on June 26^th. When the bikes and Goldsprints set up is not on the road, it will be proudly on display in the Chrome retail store in San Francisco.

The famous Chrome black van will be transporting the Goldsprint set-up from location to location. Check out Chrome Messenger Bags and the Masi Bicycles website (www.masibikes.com) for tour information and details. In-depth details on the entire Velo City Tour can also be found at the Cyclehawk website (www.cyclehawk.com).

Masi Speciale Randonneur in Iowa

2009-05-12T12:36:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we received a great email from Vaughan in New Zealand about his happiness with his Speciale CX and today we hear from Bill Graves and his happiness with his Speciale Randonneur;

Masi Guy,

I just want to post a little story about my SPECIALE RANDONNEUR and the TransIowa race I took it on the first week of May 2009.

There are many things about TransIowa but one of them is not smooth surface asphalt pavement (except for maybe 5-10% of the total 320 mile route). I struggled for 6 months in choosing which type of bike to take on this adventure and the final decision was made just 3 weeks before race date. I was visiting Dayton, Ohio and stopped in at a local bike shop and took the Speciale CX out and deemed it the bike that would take me to Iowa.

I drove back home and headed off to my local bike shop that stocks Masi in search of the CX. What I found was the Randonneur instead and was I happy about that. I know the CX would have been a fine steed to take along on my adventure but next summer my friend and I are planning a long cross country trip and that swayed me to make the final “Touring” bike decision.

I did a little post fabrication work – took off the fenders, added a rear rack (which saved my rear end from dropping out at mile 80 because of poor planning on my part!), put some larger tires on it, and hit the road.

Although I did not complete the race: 320 miles, non-stop, non-supported, cue sheets for directions, and on gravel or B level maintenance roads (website: http://transiowa.blogspot.com/) – my bike did not fail me. I am supremely pleased with the decision to purchase the Masi Speciale Randonneur and look forward to many comfortable miles upon it!

Enclosed is a picture of the bike with my breakfast at a local gas station in North English, Iowa.

She served her purpose beyond expectation and I look forward to the return next year and hopefully a successful journey!

Thanks for making such a great bike!

Bill Graves

I'd have to agree with Bill here- the Randonneur IS a great bike!

We love getting emails and testimonials like this. We kinda live in a bubble here at Masi Global World Domination Headquarters- we believe in each and every bike we create and think they're all pretty incredible, but hearing from those of you who have the bikes "in the field" makes our work that much more rewarding. So really, the thanks come from us... THANK YOU!

Tim

Masi Speciale CX in New Zealand

2009-05-11T08:49:00.000-07:00

I'm not exactly known for being "a man of few words", in fact... I'm pretty well known for being "wordy". However, sometimes there is nothing I can say better than the words of somebody else. With that said, I'm going to let Vaughan Watson of Christchurch City, New Zealand do the talking here:

Hey Masi Guy,
just thought I'd send in a little story and some pictures of what my Speciale CX and me have been up to over here in New Zealand. You see, over here there is absolutely no such thing as Cyclo-Cross, i.e. no races, nobody knows what such a bike looks like, they're a novelty in obscure corners of foreign magazines for the most part. So what do you do with a steel 'cross bike in New Zealand?

It's done 4 100km+ road races with me placing as high as top 5 in my age group amateur class, and first bunch of amateurs each time in fields of over 1000 people. It's wonderful mixing it up with the carbon boys as many look upon your soulful steel beast with utter disdain!

It's completed two proper XC MTB races in the local Canterbury Summer XC series, first race I got 2nd in sport, then mixing it up with the elite boys I got 6th with a puncture at the next one, despite the mud and slop and many people walking the downhill sections, which the Masi nailed.

It's completed a 106km 'off road' race, consisting mainly of gravel 4x4 road, getting me 30th place out of 700 odd, in freezing cold conditions with a few people getting treated for hypothremia. I tell ya, there is something satisfying about nailing past full suspension bikes downhill in the big ring on your CX bike in an 'MTB' race!

It's done 850 road km in one week, with 414 of those in one day between my hometown Nelson and where I now live in Christchurch City, a goal I've long wanted to accomplish, the Masi rode comfortably for the whole 19 hour (including stops) effort.

It's been ridden through a number of the local MTB trails, some of which get raced in Downhill competition, and the easy line of jumps at the local trail!

It's also been a reliable commuter doing about 80km in that duty each week since I bought it, and has been on a nice leisurely ride with my girlfriend down the local recreational cycle path.

About the only thing it hasn't done is Cyclo-Cross!

Although there is no such thing as Cyclo-Cross in New Zealand, this bike has proven an awesome choice for all types of riding. STEEL IS REAL! I've never had such a comfortable riding road bike, sure rocky MTB trails can be a little hard on the body on this bike compared to the full suss, but sometimes you just gotta suck it up, there is something so satisfying about using such a simple bike to conquer such rugged terrain.

If for some reason I could only own one bike, I would be happy with it being my Masi Speciale CX over any other! Thanks for making such an awesome bike.

Cheers,
Vaughan Watson
Christchurch City
New Zealand
(P.S. those Masi team cycling kits are looking sharp, perfect for getting the word out about your brand at the races!)

Like I said above, there's nothing I can add to make Vaughan's commentary any better.

Thank you Vaughan- we sincerely appreciate your passion for Masi and your Speciale CX... and we agree with you- "steel IS real".

Tim

Masi at Tour de Romandie

2009-05-04T15:25:00.000-07:00

Masi is a global brand and we're happily growing that sphere of influence/ domination. We make products that we're very excited about and proud of. In fact, we make products that many people enjoy and love... even Pro Tour riders at the recent Tour de Romandie;

On the podium...

Notice the Francaise de Jeux rider checking out the Masi- obviously wishing he could ride it.

You can almost hear the smile on his face.

Looks like the right size!

See how happy he is?

Even skinny climbers like nice bikes!

I'll bet they're asking him why he thinks the Masi is the best bike ever made.

Throw a little green in that team kit and it's a perfect match!

"Finally! A bike I can love!"

You can see how much he enjoys riding the bike. He seems so happy!

You can tell by all the smiles on the faces of the riders that they are happy to get to ride such a fine machine... finally. At Masi, we believe in sharing the love with riders everywhere around the world... even pro riders on non-Masi teams.

Extra special thanks to Steph and Phil from PIMP in Switzerland for getting the pictures for us. Steph is the happy owner of the Mini-Velo and the one so proudly riding it and showing it off all across Switzerland. THANK YOU!

Tim

FINAL JERSEY DESIGNS!

2009-04-30T13:41:00.000-07:00

Go to the Masiguy.com blog site to place your vote on the poll there, but take a look at the final three designs;

Remember- we are still going to have a matching jersey/ bib short later... but first we're doing one of the above jerseys... SOON!

Tim

Lunchtime fixie ride at Masi Global Domination headquarters

2009-04-29T09:59:00.000-07:00

Our sister company here at Masi Bicycles is Haro Bicycles. Haro is world famous for BMX and BMX freestyle and has sponsored the biggest names in the sport for decades now. One of the current stars of the BMX sport is Dennis Enarson, who just happens to be a local San Diego area resident- and a damned good guy as well.

Lunchtime fixie ride with Haro BMX star Dennis Enarson and the folks at Masi Bicycles from Tim Jackson on Vimeo.
(Video by Rick Ortiz)

Dennis is recovering from shoulder surgery and is having fun doing a bit of "rehab" on a fixie. He stopped by the office yesterday for a visit and we popped out for a little fun lunch cruise. It was another ugly day in southern California... sorry.

Tim

What's your frame of mind?

2009-04-22T11:47:00.000-07:00

There is something so gratifying and personally fulfilling, as a bike nut, about getting a nice frameset and then selecting each and every component yourself. Whether you build it yourself in your garage (or kitchen, like me) or walk into your favorite local bike shop with your arms full of parts and a frame around your neck, there is just something about knowing that the bike you ride is of your own creation.

We're exceedingly proud of each and every complete bike we make and sell, but we're also very proud of the frames we sell- either as the chassis of one of our complete bikes or as a special, stand alone frameset.The Coltello is the ultimate in track racing performance. The geometry is designed specifically for racing on the steep banking of the world's fastest tracks... or sprinting through the hectic traffic of any city street in the world. Trust us when we say it's fast; it was ridden last year by track Omnium World Champion Hayden Godfrey of New Zealand and was ridden to a US Collegiate National Championship in the Kilo and Omnium by Bennet van der Genugten.
Here's the Speciale Sprint- carefully crafted with Reynolds 631 tubing in the exact same geometry as the Coltello. If steel is your thing, then this is your ride! Retro cool with total performance in mind.
Maybe you love our CXR bike, but have always wondered what it would look like draped in a SRAM or Campagnolo group, rather than Shimano. Or maybe you want to race at the highest level of the sport and want to bolt it up with new Dura Ace or Ultegra parts and a nice set of carbon wheels and cross sew-ups... then look no further. The CXR is race ready and designed to pick its way through the muck or dust and deliver you to the finish line in fine style.

The guys on the Kenda Pro Cycling p/b Spinergy cycling team have been putting the 3VC Team Issue frame to the test for 3 years now and they have racked up an impressive list of wins along the way. With some of the best sprinters in the business, the frame clearly has the stiffness to produce speed with your power. Maybe you like going up climbs too? If so, the 3VC Team Issue has the weight- or lack of- to help you get to the top quickly. Best of all, the 3VC frame delivers on the promise of carbon- light, stiff and buttery smooth. It's the perfect balance of all the things you want in a carbon frame. Grab your favorite parts and create your own masterpiece!

Here's the thing; frame demand continues to grow and we've finally got all 4 models in stock! If you've been hankering to create something uniquely yours, now is the perfect time to put on your Product Manager hat and create your own perfect build. You will not be disappointed if you do!

Tim

Preliminary Masi jersey designs!

2009-04-14T19:48:00.000-07:00

Here are some very early concepts for one of the two Masi jersey designs we are working on. Feel free to vote for your favorite here in the comments or over on my Masiguy blog on the poll that I have set up there.

We're pretty excited to be so close to having a final design ready. Remember- this is only one of two designs we will have and one of the two will have a matching bib short as well... so stay tuned (and VOTE)!

Tim

Design update; check the Masiguy blog for an update on the designs- didn't want to put them here and make a mess of this space, so check out the mess over at my space...

Masi on CSI: New York

2009-04-09T09:47:00.000-07:00

And the hits keep coming!

Last night, episode 20 of CSI: New York- Prey- aired. One of the cases in the episode revolves around the bike polo team, the Brooklyn Bruisers. Two Masi bikes are used in the scene at the actual bike polo match- a Metallic Yellow Speciale Fixed and a Root Beer Speciale CX. It's pretty darned cool.
Howard at Athena Cycles was the man who provided the bikes to the show and we're mighty happy he did!

If you check out the League of Bike Polo blog, you can read some of the details of the filming of the episode and see the camera mounted to the Metallic Yellow Speciale Fixed. Some pretty cool stuff there.

The thing that makes us most proud is that the shows that have been using Masi bikes are doing so on their own- nobody from the shows has contacted us, they've made the smart choices all on their own! (Who says TV rots your brain?)

Tim

Masi riders continuing to fly the colors high!

2009-04-07T15:26:00.000-07:00

Here at Masi Bicycles, we're exceptionally proud of our riders and their accomplishments. Our involvement with the Kenda Pro Cycling p/b Spingery team is something that we have been very excited about for the past four years.

Over the past few weeks, a few great results have come in that are just too good not to share for various reasons...

Team co-Captain Remi McManus, 2001 Elite Road Champion, had a rough year last season with nagging injuries keeping him off his best form. Earlier this year, Remi's season was starting off a little frustrating with illness... but nothing sets things straight like getting a race win;

On a day that would be dominated by the sun, the cold and the winds of the high desert, Kenda Pro Cycling p/b Spinergy pro Remi McManus finds his legs and prevails on his MASI 3VC against a peloton of his friends and enemies alike.

The Birds Of Prey Road Race started with the peloton shivering and huddled together to find warmth as the temp was in the 40's and the winds seemed to be about the same. Although the temp was cold the pace heated up from the start. With a whistling cross/tail wind some of the larger, stronger teams saw the opportunity to put it in the gutter and see what damage could be done early in the race. This was not the start to the race I was hoping for, as I was caught in the back in a conversation, thinking we would start at a gentelmen's pace- I was in a bad spot right away. When I realized what was happening I had to put a serious effort in to make my way to the front- this was the hardest effort of the year for me. After the first 20 to 30 min the pace seemed to slow as groups would go away and come back into the fold. This continued for the next few hours...

In the closing 20 miles the attacks started flyin' one after another. Not knowing who was riding well I made the decision to go with any and all attacks, although I was unsure how my legs would respond as this was the first race of the year. As we drew closer to the finish it became clear to me that there were only a few riders that could challenge me for the win and one of those riders put in an attack about 7 miles out. I thought of going but 7 miles in this wind seeemed to be too far out. The group gave him about a 15 second rope to hang himself with. Then 5 miles out it was time to make the move with the help of 1 other very strong rider and a tag along we made the bridge and atttacked straight away. With only 3 of us left rolling to the finish. Although 1 rider would not work with us I was not all that concerned- I knew if I could see the line with theese 2 no one would get the better of me in a sprint. As we came on the 1 K marker, I finished my pull and slotted in 2nd wheel looking back waiting for the attack. At 200 meters I decided that it was time, and jumped...

After a year of sickness and injury it was nice to cross the line with the hands up again. I look forward to more days like this.

Nice job Remi! We're all proud of you my friend!

Next up on the podium is the Flying Duthman, Bennet van der Genugten- BVDG for short.

Bennet made the trip down to Trinidad for an invitation-only international event with riders from around the world paired into teams for a few days of grass track racing in front of excited fans.

Racing the grass track…

Its sort of hard to describe racing a track bike in the grass, it looks basically like a soccer field but it rolls quite fast from being pressed down by a steam roller of some kind. There is some extra resistance to where it feels like you’re in a head wind the whole race, which works to the favor of the roadies thankfully!

The field was comprised of some really top track racers, the US national sprint champ, some German national team members who rode in Beijing, some British guys, Jamaicans and the Trinidad national team in full force. I was a little out of my element in such short races, but as Jeff Hopkins always reminds me, “run whatcha brung.” I was very consistent through the races, faking my way through the shorter races and sprints to some 3rds and 4ths against the big fellas, and putting the hammer down in the longer events for some more thirds and 2nds (it was a long and grueling omnium with some 20 races for those of us crazy enough to enter all of them!) I wasn’t able to win anything other than a few rounds in the sprint tourney, and the 500 meter qualifier for the sprints. My form is great but the top end is still a little sluggish to get rolling – its quite ok with me though, I was having an absolute blast, and my team director was very pleased with me, as were the race promoters who have already invited me back for a couple different races!
My equipment selection ended up being just right. I was running the Masi Coltello track frame with 85mm carbon rims on tubular tires, with the only specialty being 80-lbs of pressure instead of 150 for more grip. It looked really sharp, and the green I thought was especially cool as I was racing in the grass!

AWESOME! Way to go BVDG- it's great to see a "skinny" roadie do so well by releasing his inner track sprinter. For even more of the story and more recent racing news, you can also take a peek at BVDG's blog.

Again, we love each and every race win or podium appearance- whether from our guys on Kenda Pro Cycling or all other riders everywhere else. If you have a race report you want to share with us, send it along with a few pics and we'll add you to the pantheon of champions!

Tim

Show the world your Masi love!

2009-04-03T12:30:00.000-07:00

Say hello to one of the first pieces of the developing and unfolding series of Masi "ego items" coming out this year!

After years of getting requests for a Masi fan sticker kit, we now have one and it rocks! There are seven stickers in the pack- because seven is a lucky number and "seven" rhymes with "heaven". You get a 3" and a 5" tall head badge, 2/ 4" wide "Masi" in red and World Champion stripe, 2/ 6" wide "Masi" in red and World Champion stripe and one 4" tall World Champion Heritage sticker. All of this comes at a price of about $10.00 plus freight, tax, dealer prep, etc, your results may vary, objects in mirror are larger than they appear.

All kidding aside for around $10 you get a nice little sampling of stickers that you can plaster your car with, your computer, your helmet or anything else you want to use to express your Masi love!

This is just the beginning of our development of new and exciting accessories for the Masi fans of the world. Visit our Dealer Locator to find the dealer nearest you- these are so new that they aren't even in stores yet, so don't be surprised if you have to wait a little while to receive your delivery of sweet Masi goodness!

Tim

Masi everywhere!

2009-04-02T10:01:00.000-07:00

So much has been happening here and everywhere with Masi lately. Frankly, it's hard to keep track of it all. If it's hard for us, I'm sure it's hard for you too. So, in order to make it a little easier for you all, here are a few highlights worth knowing about;

David L'Heureux of Bicycling.com wrote an excellent review of the Masi Speciale CX after an extended product test this winter.

Note; one small correction- the saddle is a standard vinyl saddle and not actual leather... but it's a testament to the finish of the saddle that David was tricked into thinking it was real leather!

Thanks again to both Bicycling.com and David for the review and the opportunity for us to showcase this wonderful bike. It's a winner for all the reasons he points out. It has a very stable geometry and rides like a dream. It serves as a very suitable cross bike for those who itch for the feel of steel and also pulls double duty as a nimble little light-duty touring bike or commuting bike. It's a great multi-tool in a busy world.

Masi is also developing some cool celebrity credibility too... sorta...

The Masi Vincere makes a semi-cameo appearance on the hit show House, on the upcoming episode called Locked In, set to air on April 6th here in the US. Actor/ musician/ rapper Mos Def rides the Vincere... but very sadly, it looks as though he suffers an accident. I am not sure of the cause, but there is speculation here that is was caused by wearing his cycling gloves upside down. I'm no doctor (and I don't play one on TV), but I'm fairly sure that the discomfort of having his gloves on upside down lead to him being so distracted that he had an untimely accident.

All kidding aside, it's mighty cool to be on such a successful television show- even if only for a few seconds. Now, if we could just get on the Grammys or Oscars... or underneath President Obama and his family! Set your VCR, DVR, Tivo or whatever to record episode 19 on April 6th!

A nod to Cap and Candace over at Palms Cycle in Los Angeles for working with the studio to get Masi on the show and not some other brand- kudos to you!

We're lucky to be in other places and in more news and we'll keep sharing that information with you... so stay tuned to this channel for more!

Tim

A visit to Masi in Taiwan

2009-03-25T21:15:00.000-07:00

Over the past few weeks things have been very quiet on this blog, but it's for good reason, as we paid a visit to Taiwan for the Taipei Cycle Show and to see our valued partners who help to make Masi possible.

At Masi, we really love steel bikes. Steel is where the heart of the brand was born and it is where that heart remains. I won't bother to string together all of the usual buzzwords that are normally used to describe the ride of steel because it just gets tedious after awhile. The fact of the matter is that steel provides an unmatched ride quality for the money. Sure, carbon and aluminum are almost always lighter, but the ride of steel is something that the esoteric Zen masters and the modern performance freaks can both agree upon- it simply outrides any other material pound for pound and dollar for dollar.

All that said, it should come as no surprise that the highlight of our Taiwan expedition was seeing the production of our steel frames.

Gorgeous cast bottom bracket shells; it's something very simple, but it adds an element of dignity and character to the frames.

The "BREV MASI" custom track dropouts modeled after the iconic Campagnolo track dropouts of the 70's/ 80's era. Long enough for multiple gear choices, but stiff enough that you do not lose any of your power output.

The lusciously curved stays of the Speciale road frame- the stays provide stiffness and comfort for a wonderful all day ride.

Super clean welds meet harmoniously with the custom bottom bracket shell; a work of art.

The unmistakably elegant curved frame of the SoulVille. A true thing of beauty and an astonishingly good riding frame as well.

Here we have a rack full of steel forks for multiple models of bikes- some in colors you aren't even supposed to know anything about yet... but I digress.

A row of the very popular Nekkid finished frames used on the Speciale Fixed LTD. Here they are waiting to be assembled and turned into the bike of your dreams. If you've had trouble getting one in the past, help is on the way.

And, here... here we have the Speciale Sprint frames. Made of Reynolds 631 tubing and using the exact same geometry of our Coltello racing frameset, the Sprint is the steel lover's dream track race platform. If racing isn't your gig, it makes for an equally awesome track-inspired fixie. If you've got a box of NJS goodies looking for a home, the Sprint is ready!

The Taipei show wasn't just all warm and fuzzy factory/ vendor time, we did actually have jobs to do in Taiwan during the show. The show serves largely as a way for us to work closely with our various International Distributors- old, new and potential ones. It's the first time we present what we have in store for the coming season's bikes as well. As you can see in the above picture, the Mini-Velo bikes we began developing for the Asian markets- primarily Japan- are really growing into quite a collection. Again, the original development was driven by the Asian markets where these bikes have been popular for several years, but we're getting more and more domestic and non-Asian interest in the bikes... so you just never know where you might find one.

The show and our time in Taiwan visiting with our fantastic vendor partners was a success. We're confident that many more good things lie on the horizon for Masi and it makes the future pretty exciting.

Tim

Behind the scenes of Training Camp

2009-03-15T05:30:00.000-07:00

Team camp is the first time and one of the only times every one on the team gets together in one location. Bikes are built, riders fitted, equipment handed out, photos taken, and most importantly, riders and staff bonding.

Tennyson, the Head Mechanic, and I, primarily did the first thing on that list, building bikes. While some bikes were already built before camp, there were plenty others waiting to get built. We both worked hard, doing 16+ hour days, building up bikes, doing fine adjustments, solving problems, all while trying to meet everyone (actually they all came to us, how nice) and remembering to get something to eat and drink. We did not have the luxury of sleep, as riders were waiting on us to get their bikes built so they could get fitted. We would get a few hours of sleep here and there and relied on the mechanic's best friend, caffeine to keep us going.

Camp is also the time to get familiar with all the new equipment. For Tennyson, it meant most of the equipment. This is my second year with this team so I am familiar with most of the equipment, minus the new sponsors for 2009. Building a fleet of bikes also lets you know what new tools you need to buy or fabricate back home. Guys like us keep the Snap-on guy happy (or the tool truck guy of your choice)

Here's a shot of my personal toolbox. What's all in there? Well it varies by mechanic to mechanic, and if they are working neutral or on a team. For camp, you never know what you will encounter so I brought pretty much everything. Now tools will be subtracted and others added, but one thing's for sure, these tools will be working on the rockin' MASI's of Kenda Pro Cycling p/b Spinergy!

Many thanks to all the sponsors and supporters out there. Without out all of you, this program would not exist. Most importantly, thank you to Masi Bikes and Tim Jackson for the awesome bikes!

3VC Team Issue Red

2009-03-12T22:40:00.000-07:00

Some bikes just "ooze" a sexiness, a sleek look of speed or plain old "WOW". It is pretty much impossible to say that the 3VC Team Issue Red does not fit that description.

From the graphics, to the colors, to how the tires, wheels, tape and hoods all work so well together- the 3VC Team Issue Red is just stunning.

Thing is, it isn't just a pretty face. The parts spec is worthy of any pro rider anywhere... and certainly worthy of the rest of us. The SRAM Red group is sensational- light, precise and built for speed. The Zipp wheels set the standard for performance aero wheels with their toroidal rim profile and the dimpled surface. Then the Arione saddle and Ritchey WCS bar, stem and seatpost wrap up the package... and it's an amazing package at that. Weighing 14.74lbs for a complete 56cm bike, it's suitable for any climb you might want to point it up and with handling that is amazingly nimble, it'll get you down the other side with a smile across your face. (You can trust me on that.)

The good news is, we finally have these unreal machines in stock and with limited available quantities. Demand is strong, so don't wait until they're gone and you have to simply rely on watching these roll by you in the peloton. Team Kenda Pro Cycling p/b Spinergy races on the exact frame and very similar spec and they're very happy with their bikes... and they keep winning on them too.

Tim

1st Race of the year...

2009-03-09T11:30:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend I got to have my first crack at a race. I have been pretty tired after our camp so I have just been cruising trying to get back on top of things. Started feeling a little better towards the end of the week so I thought I would give the race a go.

A super hard 6 mile circuit with crazy strong winds. And of course it had to finish up a climb that hit 18%... fun fun. The rest of the course was real rolling and it ended up being right under 3000 ft of climbing for the day. Ouch. Anyway there were only around 20 guys starting so there would be no where to hide. The race was super aggressive as Jeremy Grimm from RGF was there and attacking as usual. We had 8 cracks at the hill and with 4 to go 4 of us split away over the top. We rolled pretty good and stayed away. I had been feeling pretty average all day but was hoping the fitness and all the training would help at some point. The last lap was super aggressive but no one could get away. The 4 of us came to the hill together and I sat 2nd wheel.. About halfway up one of the riders cracked and then I noticed Jeremy wasn't looking so good on my wheel so I hit out and rode away from them all to net my 1st win of the year.

Pretty happy I made it through it as I did not feel real good. Haven't really gone that hard yet this year and it was a bit of shock to the body.. guess I had to do it at some point! Was a great day as my wonderful wife made the trip with me and got to see me win my 1st race of the year!

Win number 1.

Team Kenda Pro Cycling p/b Spinergy rider- Marco Aledia

Team Kenda Pro Cycling p/b Spinergy rider bio; Chad Thompson

2009-03-06T19:53:00.000-08:00

Now that team camp is over, it's time to start with the team rider bios so you can get to know the riders about the fastest bikes in the US peloton in 2009.

We'll kick things off with Chad Thompson. Chad is the team director/ owner of the team and one of the riders as well. I first met Chad 4 years ago at Interbike, as he was waiting to speak with another bike manufacturer about possible sponsorship of the team. Chad and his crew stopped in the Masi booth to basically kill time and a conversation started that eventually lead to Masi and his company, Inferno LLC, linking up and partnering together for the team.

Over the years, I can sincerely say that Chad has become more than a team director and sponsored athlete- I consider him a friend as well.

Here's your chance to get to know him better too;

Name: - Chadwick (Chad) Thompson Nicknames = Wick, CAT, The Chad, Hanging Chad, and recently "Bossman".

Date of Birth/Age - September 17, 1972 / 36 years old.

Birthplace - Born in Erie, PA and raised in San Jose, CA (moved to Ohio in late 1997).

Hometown/Area of Residence - Currently Northeast Ohio (Macedonia, between

Cleveland and Akron). The team is actually based here, and not Columbus. Semantics.

Years Racing - 23 years with 8 year break from actual competition.

Years Professional - 3

Rider Style/Specialty - Sprinter.

Bike Size - 54 cm (very short legs for a 6 footer!).

Cycling Role Model/Inspiration - Currently Tom Boonen (for obvious sprinter and partier qualities) and El Gato (Johnny Sundt) of Kelly Benefits - good friend, hardcore worker and I love his nickname!

Favorite Kenda Pro Cycling Product - That's easy, the C2C tire for the road and the Small Block 8s for crossin'.

Favorite Race - Nevada City Classic. Never won it. And, National Points Race Championships. I have won it.

Favorite Quote - Not everyone can be heroes. There need to be people to wave at us as we go by." - FDNY quote from 9/11.

Favorite Song - "Fade to black" by Mettalica. Morbid, I know, but hey, I like it.

Favorite Book - DaVinci Code. Trendy, I know, but it started my fascination with masons and such.

Favorite Movie - Fast Times at Ridgemont High.

Favorite Food/Beverage - It’s a tie between Sushi and Mexican! / Great Lakes Brewery Dortmunder Gold (beer).

Accolades - Former National and CA state Points Race Champion (long, long ago). That's about it.

Own Website - Starting a blog called "All Fired Up!" to tie our team, web-site, ad campaign and myself altogether. Should be interesting.

Anything else you'd like others to know about you . - I am a proud father to my daughter, Mackenzie, loyal husband and I am also the boss dammit! (Inside joke with the team/fellas).

Favorite place on the planet - Ibiza, Spain. I cannot elaborate.

Favorite web-site - MasiGuy (www.masiguy.blogspot.com) and www.kendaprocycling.com (infernoracing.org), duh.

Occupation other than cycling, if any - Full-time Firefighter and SWAT Medic, Full-time daddy and the head honcho (or so I am told) of this little team.

(More bios to follow very soon.)

Tim

Kenda Pro Cycling p/b Spinergy- training camp in pictures

2009-03-02T15:00:00.000-08:00

Here are a few select images from the team's training camp in Greenville, South Carolina which just ended;

The view of the group from inside the team car- as photographed by team mechanic Katsu Tanda (thanks Katsu).

New team member Tyler Stansfield is from Birmingham, Alabama (my home state) and is going to surprise a lot of folks this year on the US race scene. (Photographed by Katsu Tanda)

A little team building exercise; flag football. You'd never know it was "flag" football judging by the number of tackles in the puddles!

Another late night team meeting- team doctor Jason Brayley goes over all of the team's medical protocols and covers how to follow doping controls and to be aware of post-race tests.

The track bike of team track star Mario Mazza. Mario knows a thing or two about how to go really fast on a fixed gear and how to play the bumping game. On the rainy ride on Saturday, we had a little fun being track guys and threw a few head butts and elbows at each other... good times.

Looking like the professional squad they are- the pinstripes and flames are destined for lots of podium spots this year!

And the folks who really make things happen on a bike team- the doc (Jason Brayley), team mechanics (Tennyson Hulcy and Katsu Tanda) and the team's soigneur extraordinaire (Janis Burns).

The group getting ready to roll out from the hotel and head out for a nice ride before the rains returned.

A slew of very fancy and very sexy customized Spinergy FCC wheels- custom decals by Wheel Tags. Title sponsor Kenda Tires provided the numerous types of tires chosen by the riders.

The bike of team super sprinter and winner of the sprint jersey at the Tour of Ohio the past four years in a row- Marco Aledia. Notice the special "bling enhancements" on the down tube, stem cap and seat collar. This was in the middle of his bike fitting with sponsor Wobblenaught.

The camp, though soggy and with little actual riding, was a success. The team had the chance to spend quality time together getting to know each other better, since there are several new riders to the team this year. All of the meetings were a success and the riders and staff ventured off in separate directions across the country to continue with training and readying themselves for the race season.

Keep your eyes open for the team's riders as they demolish the domestic peloton this year. 2009 is going to be an exciting year!

Tim

Team Kenda Pro Cycling

2009-02-26T14:55:00.000-08:00

Our team really kicks butt!
It's going to be a fantastic year and the guys are itching for the racing to begin.

Tim
(More to come...)

Kenda Pro Cycling p/b Spinergy team training camp 2009

2009-02-24T12:58:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow begins the team camp for the Kenda Pro Cycling p/b Spinergy team that we proudly sponsor. I'm jumping on a redeye flight out of San Diego to Columbus, Ohio so that I can join my friend Stefano Lumbaca of Kenda Tires and drive down to Greenville, South Carolina. The camp is being held at "the Hincapie compound"... Hincapie, as in George Hincapie and Hincapie Sportswear who are the team's clothing sponsor for 2009.

As I usually do, I'll be carrying a couple cameras, my iPhone for quick posts and pics and an HD video camera. I hope to get plenty of images for the blog and website, as well as informal interviews with the riders. Camp runs until Sunday, so I'll have plenty of opportunities to get something worth sharing here. Since I am not totally sure how much access to the internet I'm going to have, posting may be a little light until I return, but I'll be working on updates as much as possible.

Stay tuned for more- it's gonna be good.

Tim

Rider's Gallery up and running!

2009-02-19T13:47:00.000-08:00

The Rider's Gallery is now up and running!

Check it out and then send us your pictures as well. Whether you're on a new Masi or one from 1968, we're happy to see you and your favorite ride.

Tim

Masi Speciale Fixed LTD

2009-02-18T20:23:00.000-08:00

If there is a better looking fixed gear complete bike that shows up ready to roll as pretty as the Speciale Fixed LTD, we haven't met it yet!

The Speciale Fixed LTD has been such a popular selling bike since its introduction that it has been almost always sold out, which means that if you were not lucky enough to find a shop with one in stock, you had to wait for them to arrive at our warehouses so that you could get in line for an order! THAT is a popular bike!Well, for the time being at least, we finally have some in good supply and you can now wet your appetite for the nicest fixed gear complete bike on the market.

The frame is all double butted cromoly steel with a lugged steel fork. The cranks are the Sugino Messenger with Messenger chainring and red anodized chainring bolts. Deda provides the Velocita chromed steel sprint handlebars and the MKS pedals with MKS steel toeclips (with leather toe accents) are one of the crowning touches. Toss in a few more red anodized bits like the headset spacers, seat collar and spoke nipples and you have a bike with so much slobber appeal you're gonna want to carry a few towels to wipe it down.

Last, but certainly not least, is the amazing finish- which we affectionately call Nekkid. This finish is really more of an un-finish; the frame tubing is unpainted, but given a chemical bath after welding and then decals and clear coat are applied. This means you see the raw and unpainted steel tubing with all its subtle characteristics, as well as all the bronze brazing material on the frame and fork. But with the clear coat, the finish takes on a very deep luster that compliments the subtle decals.

Don't just take our word for it- take a look for yourself. You will not be disappointed!

Tim

Ready to ride!

2009-02-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Kenda Pro Cycling p/b Spinergy team training camp and media launch is a little more than a week away and I can't wait to get there to Greenville South Carolina and the Hincapie Compound to see the guys again. Many of the riders I met 3 years ago at the first training camp, but there are a lot of new faces on the team now and the team has evolved greatly from "giant killers" to serious threat in major races across the US. I've said it before, but we are extremely proud to be the bike supplier to the team for the 4th year in a row now. To see the growth of the team over that time is something that we're all quite proud of and the new season can't get started soon enough!

It'll be exciting to see these fine looking rigs in action in the top races across the US this year!

Tim

The beauty of steel; Speciale

2009-02-10T20:16:00.000-08:00

The allure of steel within the cycling world is impossible to ignore or deny- it was the first material used for bicycles and is still one of the most popular and loved, nearly 200 years after the bicycle was invented. It can be argued that no other frame material produces the quality of ride, especially when you consider relative cost. Modern steel tubing has come a long, long way and even "inexpensive" steel tubing today has weight and performance qualities similar to the "high end" tubing from 20 years ago.

For some people, steel is a new "fad" to be exploited within the market, but it's never left our blood even for a day. Our love of steel runs deep... way deep. It has always made us chuckle a bit when we read magazine reviews or marketing from other brands that tout their latest new Uber Material bike as having "a ride quality similar to steel". Why settle for similar when you can have the real thing? Nothing embodies our motto of "it's all about the ride" better than our steel series of bikes.

Meet the Speciale.

Pure beauty...

The Speciale is the origin of the steel series for us. Beautiful double butted chromoly tubing with sexy seat stays, beautiful compact rear dropouts, a gorgeous lugged steel fork and a parts blend that produces an incredible bike for the money. And, before we forget, you just can't beat the looks of the bike with every detail tied together- the metallic Ruby Red paint, the white cable housing, white saddle artwork, white tires, white bar tape and the classic black and white panel graphics... the Speciale is a thing of absolute beauty.

Not just a pretty paint job over some nice steel tubes, the Speciale is a fantastic riding bike too. The geometry is a perfect blend of performance and stability- quick handling with a very stable feel for all day riding. You can race the pack or just chase your dreams- your choice.

The Speciale is ready and waiting to join you on your journey from hectic to happy.

Tim

Are you ready for KPC?

2009-02-09T16:38:00.000-08:00

Hello all, and welcome to the new era of Masi's team, formerly known as Team Inferno. 2009 is bringing a new name, under the same program; Kenda Pro Cycling presented by Spinergy. Are you ready for KPC?
With wins in the USA Crits Series, Athens Twilight and even UCI World Championships, what cam the team expect under its UCI Continental banner? Unity, fireworks and more importantly, consistent results. We will no doubt be the shock of the pro peloton in 2009. We have a well rounded roster and a huge announcement coming soon.
Be sure to follow along, right here at the MasiBlog, in ROAD Magazine and at http://www.kendaprocycling.com/ for the beforementioned announcement and the string of media coverages throughout the year.
We are proud to rock the pin-stripes again in 2009 and beyond. We are even more proud to continue the team's growth in a time where cycling and the country as a whole suffer economically. But, we are most proud to do it all on Masi Bikes . . . . 4 years and counting!
We hope to see you all at the races and hope you will all have a chance to see the front of our bicycles at some point (LOL).
See you out there!

Team Update; Say hello to the hottest bikes in the US pro peloton!

2009-02-07T11:46:00.000-08:00

As you likely already know, Masi Bicycles is the very, VERY proud bike sponsor of the Kenda Pro Cycling p/b Spinergy cycling team. We've been with the team from the beginning, in 2005, and we're extremely proud of the wins that have come along the way. Sincerely though, what I am personally most proud of is the evolution of the team over the years. From humble beginnings as a giant killer to becoming one of the teams all the other teams have to watch- and increasingly from behind them when the team gets the win.

The first of the team's bikes are built and getting prepped for the team's training camp/ media launch at the "Hincapie Compound" in South Carolina. Hincapie Sportswear has come on as the team's clothing sponsor as well as host to the team's training camp (which I will be attending, so stay tuned for some exclusives).

Check out the team's new rigs for 2009;

It really should be photographed from the rear so that all the other teams will recognize it when they see it...

And the super cool team jersey- pinstripes just never go out of fashion!

We're looking forward to another great year with the team. Stay tuned here for rider bios, conversations with the riders, video and more- as well as guest posts here by the team. 2009 is gonna be very exciting!

Tim

Masi SoulVille 3 speed on USA Network's Monk

2009-01-18T18:09:00.000-08:00

Got word this evening from a Masi SoulVille 3 speed owner, Richard Suits, pointing out that he and his family witnessed a SoulVille 3 speed on the hit TV series Monk.

Thank you to Richard for the heads up and thanks to USA Networks and whoever is in control of their prop procurement for selecting a SoulVille 3 speed. Even with the frame artwork covered, you can still see the head badge and the look is unmistakably a SoulVille 3 speed.

You can see the episode, Mr. Monk on Wheels, right here. It's right in the beginning of the episode. Beautiful!

Tim

SoulVille 3 Speed

2009-01-09T12:17:00.000-08:00

The SoulVille 3 speed is a thing of beauty; it's the less expensive, but no less functional and enjoyable cousin of the original SoulVille (7 speed).The 3 Speed uses the very same double butted chromoly steel frame and fork as the more expensive SoulVille models, but uses a SRAM 3 speed internal hub with simple and functional coaster brake. The padded button saddle has all the style points of the leather saddle used on the 7 speed model and the natural cork grips have an exceptional feel in your hand.

It's not surprising that the SoulVille family has been so popular and now that we finally have some stock in the 3 speed model, you can finally get your hands on one! Visit your Masi retailer for a test ride or place an order... you won't be sorry you did.

Tim

Speciale CX

2009-01-03T19:59:00.000-08:00

It's always nice when we get a little love for the products we love too;

Obviously, we're a bit biased, but we certainly think that the guys at Urban Velo are on to something when they say, "the bottom line is, you get what you pay for and this bike strikes a good balance between 'want' and 'need.' "

The Speciale CX has been one of our best selling bikes since we brought it out 2 years ago. Jeff brings up all the reasons why in his brief analysis of the bike.

If you're looking for a good "do it all" bike that won't break the bank and offers style points to match the value, then look no further than the Speciale CX.

Thanks again to the guys at Urban Velo for the nice mention. (The check's in the mail Jeff... and maybe even a CX to test.)

Tim

THEY'RE HERE!!! (sorta)

2008-12-31T11:11:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to let a bunch of you very anxious folks know that the Speciale Sprint and Coltello framesets have arrived!

Speciale Sprint; Reynolds 631 steel and awesome race geometry.

Coltello; light, stiff, aero... fast!

Demand for these frames has been very high, so quantities are a little limited on a few sizes. I'll put it this way; if you already had your shop get one on order for you, then you're golden. If not... you might wanna call them today.

As a refresher course; the Coltello and Speciale Sprint share identical geometry and fork offset. The Coltello is the aluminum go fast frame- identical to the frame ridden by current Track Omnium World Champion Hayden Godfrey.

World Champion Hayden Godfrey aboard his Coltello frame.

The Speciale Sprint is identical in geometry, but is built with Reynolds 631 double butted steel tubing. This is identical to the frame I was racing on when I crashed at the end of April- and it's still straight as an arrow!

My own personal Speciale Sprint built up and ready to race... before the crash.

The geometry of the two frames is all about serious track racing with a very high BB for riding on the steepest of tracks. So if you've got a need for some serious speed- or want to build up a completely PRO looking street fixie (without having to buy a retired Keirin frame from Japan)- then look no further than these two beauties!

Tim

Is it time to race yet?

2008-12-30T14:48:00.000-08:00

One of the coolest days of the year for me is when the shipment (or shipments) of team frames shows up. We're very, very proud to be the bike sponsor of the Kenda Pro Cycling p/b Spinergy

cycling team. Today we received the special Team Edition versions of the 3VC Team Issue framesets for the team. Late last week we also received the Coltello Aero framesets.

A year's worth of FAST!

Oh so lovely!

The view most riders in the US domestic pro peloton will be seeing.

Here's a shot of the front of the bike, for those pro's curious to know what the front of the bikes look like.

The Coltello Aero frames... OH SO PRETTY!

I didn't kiss them all... really, I didn't...

Keep in mind, the only thing different between the frames the team rides and the ones you buy is that their frames have a few different decals on them... that's it. They get the same sweet treatment you do. Whether it's carbon or aluminum, what they get and what you get is identical- meaning you get the same awesome frames that the team will be racing to many victories in 2009.

Bring on the race season!

Tim