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What We Ride: Mike Petcher

Masi Speciale CX

Mike Petcher ("Petch") is the Sales Manager at the Century Cycles store in Medina. He purchased his '09 Masi Speciale CX in March of 2009 to use as a "path bike" -- a bike to ride on the Towpath Trail (including our Night Rides), Metroparks trails, and anywhere else that his regular road bike is not up to the task. He also occasionally uses it for commuting to work at the shop.

As a cyclocross bike, the Speciale CX has a higher bottom bracket compared to a road bike, to provide better clearance over obstacles and rough roads. Because of this, some people will need to choose a size smaller than usual for a good fit. Petch usually rides a 61cm in this style of bike, but went with a 58cm in this case. He swapped out the stock stem for a shorter one with higher rise. He also added a Topeak cargo rack and trunk bag, Shimano SPD clipless pedals, and a CatEye Strada Wireless computer. Because of its root-beer-brown color, Petch has dubbed his bike "The Root Beer Float."

Petch calls the Masi Speciale CX a "good lookin', good ridin' bike." The perfect blend of the steel frame, 'cross geometry, and compact double drive train provide "stylish comfort."

This article was published on March 11, 2011.

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