Luca’s Legend ELT

For about 5 years I have been working on the communication of the brand Legend and that’s how I met Marco and his family. To tell you the truth, rather than communicating, my job is about documenting the creations and the most significant phases of the handmade production process that distinguishes his frames.

Observing Marco at work is incredible, just as it is hearing him talking about cycling. Needless to say, by constantly taking pictures of breath-taking bikes, I began to crave to own one…

I love all kinds of metal, but if I had had the opportunity to choose, I would have opted for a Titanium frame.

The chance came while talking over a cup of coffee. Marco told me: “I’m thinking about a new model, a racing frame in titanium, it will be called ELT… entry level titanium, but don’t worry, the quality is Legend’s.”

I immediately accepted and, in no time, we were at the bike fitting. I decided to rely completely on him, who in the old fashioned way (zero technology, lots of experience) took my measures, watched me riding, asked me about the type of activity I usually practiced and that I intended to practice with the new bike, and finally said goodbye.

After about three weeks I received this picture!

My frame was ready and it had been sent to laser, the components were at the workshop ready to be assembled.

Specifically, I chose the Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic groupset, 3T discus C35 carbon wheels, 3T seatpost and handlebars.

I personally witnessed the assembly ritual: piece after piece the frame took shape and then became a racing bike.

MY Legend titanium racing bike by Bertoletti.

The riding experience of a customized frame is truly unique: it feels like pedalling an extension of your own body, not a pain, not an uncomfortable behaviour.

Moreover, knowing that those tubes, those invisible welds, that geometry are the final result of the work of a great craftsman (one of those you can hardly find in Italy or even in the world), is a satisfaction beyond my ability to explain.

It’s been about two years since that day, but I still enjoy my bike as if it was new. The next one will certainly be a Gravel: Bergamo or Fedaia… we’ll see!

-Luca