Naked and unadorned, the composite of Dedacciai EOM and Columbus Life pipes, protected by nothing but clear varnish, reveals the traces of its creation: Flash rust on bare steel, traces of smoke at the joints of the pipes, file marks wherever solder residue had to be removed. Frame builder Stefano Agresti realised at the last Eurobike trade fair that this kind of purism is popular. There, the "raw look" of his frames received at least as much praise as rejection - and nothing in between. It is difficult to assess the workmanship here, but one thing can be said for sure: Agresti's welding skills are flawless.
At just under 1,800 grams, the unpainted frame is no lightweight, but it boasts high stiffness values. In stark contrast to the frame is the classy equipment: the drivetrain and brakes come from Campagnolo's Chorus groupset, while the wheels, seatpost and stem are from lightweight specialist tune. Including the elegant core leather saddle from Brooks, the bike weighs a respectable 8.2 kilos. The price of the unique bike is 4,100 euros, the literally "naked" frame with fork comes to 1,450 euros.
If you have had enough of the "raw look", you can always have the frame and fork painted later.
PLUS: stable ride; good suspension comfort on the saddle
MINUSFrame and fork quite heavy; susceptible to corrosion
Web: www.agresti.de
