| Country: | United States | Primary Focus: | Bicycles |
| Years of Operation: | Mid 1970's - Mid 1990's |
| General Information |
An attempt by Bill Recht at establishing a bicycle building group in the Italian style. They were to be an entry level racing line in conjunction with Confente Bicycles, but Mario Confente rejected the line as being inferior to his frames. The geometry and other details are similar to the Masi and Confente, however their lugs weren't as detailed or finely finished. Available in either a frame only or a complete bicycle, primarily as the Pro Strada model which was equipped with Campagnolo Nuovo Record as well as Super Record in its later year models. Largely underrated by collectors, they do enjoy a following in the vintage bicycle world. Also available in a touring and track (Pista) models, and small rider oriented Pro Minimo frame sizing option as well.
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| History |
Part of Bill Recht's attempt at setting up an American frame building empire, related to his failed attempt at buying the Carlsbad Masi operation, that Roland Sahms had established after signing an agreement with Falierio Masi.
Mario Confente was the name/frame builder behind Bicycles by Confente, another part of Bill Recht's plan. Brian Bayliss, J.F. Cunningham, Mike Howard and several other builders and painters were all a part of Medici and/or Masi Carlsbad, at one time or another. Confente rejected the Medici line as being inferior to his finely detailed frames, especially in the lugs chosen for use, as opposed to the hand filed, high end lugs he preferred.
A long, dramatic, description of the Medici and Masi saga was featured at Classic Rendezvous, via emails by Brain Bayliss, and occasional comments by Jim Cunningham.
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