Titanium Basso or Klein Palomino Build?

[MotobecaneXCfan]

I have two frames from which to choose from to build up a new bike. I have a 1995 Basso Titanium full suspension frame and just got a 2005 Klein Palomino frame. I have a 2007 fox f100 fork to put on and cables etc, ready to do the build. I can't decide which would be the better build. I will be using it for trails mostly and some single track. No big drops or anything downhill at all. I am 6'4" 240lbs. Any suggestions?

Thanks

[Dirty $anchez]

I'd go for the Litespeed built Basso . JMO

[MotobecaneXCfan]

I love that frame. Picked it up for a steal. I have never ridden a titanium bike. I have heard that they flex a bit but are indestructable. Would be a fun build.

[mimi1885]

Palomino, looks good and one of the best climber around. If you want a better small bump compliance, later you can up grade the link.

[jtmartino]

The Basso frame may be cooler from a vintage perspective, but is it made for a 100mm fork, or an 80mm? Also, the rear shock may be an issue - is it in good shape? What kind of shock does it have?

The Klein Palomino is a great bike with that nifty Maverick-designed rear end. They're lightweight and great XC bikes, but they (along with Klein Adept frames) have a history of cracking near the BB or near the dropouts if you're a heavier rider.

Since you don't really do any serious riding, I'd go for the Basso and build with a mix of vintage and modern bike parts. Post pics on the VRC forum, I'm sure they'd enjoy that .

If it were me, I'd scrounge some parts to build both .

[MotobecaneXCfan]

I am eventually going to build them both. I have a Risse rear shock for the Basso that I am getting rebuilt by Risse. The man I bought the Basso from had a 100mm fork on it. I got some Titanium handle bars for the Basso and am looking for a stem. It will be a very cool build.