$4300
21.8 pounds
Hardtail
Scapin, (310) 632-7173
Maxi test: August 2005

Highlights: Scapin proves the artisan days of hand brazed, lugged Columbus steel Italian frames aren't gone. Tig welding might have replaced brazing lugs, but everything else is as it was. It still has the custom butted Columbus steel tubing. Bottom bracket and seat cluster lugs cap the ends of the Mizuno carbon seat tube. It's hand built with more love and passion than anywhere else in the world. Look at the Scapin's filet-brazed-like Tig welds, the paint, the graphics and unique design features. It's as beautiful as the Bianchi that Fausto Coppi rode while putting Italy on the cycling map. But instead of Celeste, it's sports car red, white and black.

Best quote: "Out of the saddle it gives that energetic, responsive feel of acceleration that only steel can give. Can you say Mario Cipollini?"

Bottom line: What's the difference between a da Vinci and a paint-by-numbers kit? After all, it's just canvas, oil and brushes. The difference is one of taste, heritage, experience, talent and feel. Da Vinci has it. So does Scapin. How rare of a breed the Scapin remains is up to you. From a deal worked out through their Italian importer, KHS bicycles has already committed to bringing the identical road version of the Nope V into the states. Expensive, custom hardtails are a hard sell today. If the interest is out there, KHS will bring the Nope V from Venice with love.