Another day, another Titanium GT! I just can’t seem to be able to pass these up when I come across them.
The Lightning was only made for two years in 1997 and 1998. They were built in Asia (Taiwan most likely) of [US] Sandvik ti tubing. The geometry is identical to the US-made Xizang. Apparently it was built to appeal to a more budget-conscious rider who wanted Ti, but couldn’t break the bank for the Xizang.
Whatever.
Turns out, the Lightning is actually harder to find than the Xizang due to only being available for 2 years. The weight is nearly identical to the Xizang as well. This 16″ frame weighed in at 3.54lbs (1600g).
I’ve always liked the satin finish of the Lightning, so when i found one perusing the Vintage section on mtbr.com, I said, “what the heck” and contacted the seller and worked out a deal.
You may notice a lot of the same parts being transferred over from previous bikes. This one inherited everything from the Dekerf. I’m just waiting on some NOS GT decals and a 31.8mm Paul ChainKeeper chainguide and it’ll be ready to ride. If I like it, I am planning on swapping the tires and saddle for something in the superlight category, which should bring the final weight down to around 20lbs (it’s ~21.5 w/pedals currently).
If I don’t like it, then I think this is it for me and vintage bikes. I will sell this build along with the Dekerf frame, and find myself a modern superlight 29er hardtail (although the retro in me is really digging the Ritchey P-29er…)
Hi, I was wondering if the fork on this bike is a 100mm or an 80mm fork? I’m thinking of putting a longer fork on my GT, not sure how it will affect ride quality, handling, etc. Sorry if this is random!
Sorry for the late reply. If I recall correctly, it’s a 100mm fork. I no longer have it, unfortunately.
I’ve got one for sale. ’97 with a 20″ frame, Marzocchi shock and a few other upgrades. It’s in excellent condition having been in storage for over 10 years. Any thoughts on value or a potential buyer? I’m based in Phoenix btw
Easiest would be eBay. You could also post for free in the mtbr.com classifieds as well as at retrobike.co.uk (but they are primarily a European-based forum).