Rare Kestrel 200 SCi Carbon Frame - Made in Santa Cruz (2002) with EMS Pro Fork

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Kestrel 200 SCi One Piece Graphite - S#44922 - Obsidian Black (2002)

"Carbon Innovation"

Born during the crucible of carbon fiber innovation, this Kestrel 200 SCi represents a pivotal moment in cycling history. Hand-crafted in Santa Cruz, California, it showcases Kestrel's groundbreaking Single Continuous internal (SCi) molding process - technology that would influence carbon frame design for decades to come. This frame stands as a prime example from Kestrel's golden era of American carbon manufacturing. Paired with its EMS Pro threaded carbon fork - another triumph of American engineering from Massachusetts-based Engineering Materials Systems - this combination represents the cutting edge of early '90s composite technology.

Heritage Note: Serial number 44922 identifies this as a February 2002 frame, assembled on production line 449 at Kestrel's original Santa Cruz facility.

The Ride

The 200 SCi's distinctive lowered seatstay design was engineering brilliance that delivered exceptional road feel while maintaining racing-level stiffness. The One Piece Graphite construction creates a ride that's both remarkably responsive and surprisingly subtle. On the road, you'll experience a unique combination of planted stability and lively acceleration - the frame seems to anticipate your inputs, whether you're climbing out of the saddle or diving into a technical descent. This isn't just a bike frame - it's a piece of engineering that helped define what carbon fiber could achieve.

Workshop Wisdom

The 200 SCi features thoughtfully engineered internal cable routing that both streamlines the frame's appearance and enhances its aerodynamic profile. The integrated braze-on cable guides for both derailleurs provide precise, reliable shifting performance while maintaining the frame's clean lines. Note: use caution on installing 27.2mm seatposts, these fit incredibly snug and be near impossible to remove. 26.8mm seatposts are harder to find, but fit like they should.

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