In late 2007, I contracted with Mike Terraferma (www.terrafermacycles.com) to build a comfortable "go fast" bike in the classic style. One that would be custom to my body - long torso - and have a few extras, without breaking the bank. He delivered everything I asked and more!

Though I do no racing and mostly avoid pace lines these days - with a touring bike, a cyclocross, single speed in my stable of road bikes, I kind of missed the feeling of "floating" up a steep hill. This bike does it! It "floats" across the pavement almost like it was inches above the tarmac!

Although this is something of a mongrel build, I tried to stay with older - mostly NOS and close-out - Campy components. I wanted to ride 28mm tires, to add comfort for longer rides with their lower pressures.

The tubing is True Temper OX brazed to Henry James lugs for an understated look. The top of the fork crown and front dropouts are polished stainless, while the rear triangle is chromed. (Wet) paint is a metallic graphite with a two-stage translucent ruby wine accents. (Red over metallic gold) The seat tube and down tube panels are stenciled instead of using decals, so the logo lettering and stripes match the main frame color, which adds a "luxury" aesthetic. Mike added his distinctive head badge, makes for a luxurious but classic look, too.

Here are studio shots taken before Mike shipped the frame:

http://ruedatropical.wordpress.com/2009/05/09/terraferma-cycles/

These show the bike and color better than I could ever do.

Component list:
Wheelset - Mavic Open Pro laced to White Industries polished silver hubs. 32h.
Headset - Chris King 1" threaded Gripnut
Crankset - Campy NOS Record 10 sp.
Bottom Bracket - Phil Wood Campy square taper
Seatpost - refurbished (polished) Campy C Record
Stem - NOS Nitto Crystal Fellow (quill style)
Handlebars - Nitto Randonneur
Brakes & Shifters - Campy 10 sp. QS Ergopower
Brakes - Campy Chorus
Cassette & Chain - Campy Chorus 10 sp.
Front & Rear Derailleurs - Campy Chorus 10 sp.
Pedals - Ritchey WCS V4 Ti

If anyone wants a custom frame that "sings" while you ride down the road, contact Mike! I could not be happier with mine!

Paul Germain
Midlothian, Virginia

GermainArt@aol.com