$5700
23.8 pounds
Hardtail
Litespeed, (423) 238-5530
Full test: November 2007 (Click here to order this issue)

Highlights: Butting titanium isn't easy, and Litespeed does it through the manipulation of the tube shapes. Looking closely at the frame you'll notice the bi-axial downtube. The stays begin in a square shape for tire clearance, and then [magically] turn round as they head towards the dropouts.

Best quote: "Our bike was a slow-steering package. Coupling a 26-inch-wide bar with a 110-millimeter stem does work great at a midspeed-and-up pace, and is absolute magic bombing down rough descents."

Bottom line: The fact isÊthat there aren't too many Obed-riders-in-the-making out there. That is what makes the Litespeed Obed so cool. It's spec'd top drawer. Hardtails are now so unusual that the Obed attracts attention. People just know that it's a special, almost one-off bike by looking at the matte silver frame. The Litespeed Obed is for people who aren't afraid to spend money to be different.