Lauro’s First Impressions

Lauro picked up his frame directly from my workshop, and I clearly remember the excitement with which he received it. The first photo he sent me shows him at that moment, smiling while holding his handcrafted frame made of Columbus steel tubes with Silver Fillet Brazed joints.

Lauro picking up his frame at the Forgione workshop

That day marked the beginning of a new cycling adventure for Lauro. After his first ride on the assembled bike, he commented:

"I just got off the bike. It’s a whole different world compared to aluminum, I never thought the difference would be so huge. During the ride, I could hardly believe it 😄. On Saturday, I’ll do a 200-km ride and see how it performs over long distances."

This initial enthusiasm from Lauro reflects the satisfaction of switching from an aluminum frame to a handcrafted steel one. The comfort and stability that a custom frame offers can truly make a difference, especially for experienced cyclists like Lauro, who take part in demanding events like randonnées.

The Test: 200-km Randonnée

A few days later, Lauro took part in a 200-km randonnée with over 3000 meters of elevation gain, including sections with 20% gradients. The Forgione frame handled the challenge effortlessly, proving its excellent qualities. Lauro was pleased with the outcome and wrote me another message to share his experience:

"My friend, you did a great job. The 200 km with 3000 meters of elevation (including 20% gradients) went perfectly on just the second ride. I was comfortable the entire time, and most importantly, I had no joint or back pain. Thank you again!"

These words are a great compliment to my work, which aims to create not just high-performance bicycles but, above all, comfortable ones for long distances. The steel construction with Silver Fillet Brazed joints provides better comfort compared to other materials like aluminum while maintaining excellent durability. Lauro’s ability to tackle such a demanding challenge without experiencing any discomfort in his back or joints is a testament to the quality of these frames.

Bike Details and Positive Feedback

In two of the photos Lauro sent, you can see the complete bike during one of his rides. The elegance of the fully handcrafted frame and the attention to detail that makes each bicycle unique are immediately evident.

Complete bike during the randonnée Lauro’s complete bike, handcrafted with Silver Fillet Brazed technique, during his first ride

In three additional photos, Lauro showcases some details of the bike: from the precise brazing work to the paint finish and the choice of components—everything comes together to create a perfect machine for long distances and high performance.

Frame detail: brazing work Frame detail: paint finish Frame detail: fork with front wheel

In the final image, the fully assembled bike is shown in all its beauty—a prime example of classic Italian style combined with modern functionality. This bicycle is not just a means of transport but a true work of craftsmanship.

Lauro’s Forgione steel frame with Silver Fillet Brazed technique, fully assembled

Conclusion

I am very happy that Lauro has found a reliable and comfortable companion in the Forgione frame. Knowing that a passionate long-distance cyclist benefits from a custom frame makes me proud of my work.

Thank you, Lauro, for sharing your experience!