The rider: Glenn Himstedt
The Bike: 2004 Mercian Vincitore Special
Frame details: Reynolds 853 tubing; 73 degree seat and head tube angles; 42cm seat stays; 42mm fork rake.
Components: Campagnolo Record 10 group; 36 hole rear, 32 hole front hubs; Mavic Open Pro rims
Glenn's commentary: For the longer brevets I'll change out the Campy crank for a 52-36 or 52-34. I also use a Schmidt hub and dual Lumitec headlamps. The frame has clearance for Honjo fenders if needed. I use a Carradice Barley bag with a Bagman support to carry gear. After completing my first series in 2004 on a Cannondale CAAD5 I was very pleased with the comfort of a more relaxed steel frame. In spite of all the reasons I gave my wife why I needed this frame, more efficient, more comfortable, etc., the real reason I ride the Mercian is because I enjoy owning a classic frame built the way frames have been built for over 100 years.