Just as they were about to leave the U.S. market, Panasonic introduced two new aluminum framed models. The AL-7000 was the entry level aluminum framed bike below the slightly better equipped AL-9000. They were here for only one year and given the number that I have seen on classified postings around the U.S., the AL-7000 seems to have sold fairly well. <\/p>\n
The AL-7000 was a light frame and not nearly as rigid as many of the other aluminum bikes I’ve ridden over the years. The part group used on the AL-7000 consisted of Shimano Sport LX and Exage mostly which is why they are a bit lackluster in value for collectors. With that said, even the top level AL-9000 only got Shimano 105 at the time. The AL series bikes are definitely interesting and worth the ride… especially if you enjoy collecting and\/or riding different frame materials. <\/p>\n
The bike we’ve featured here was graciously shared with us by Jeremy Spatrisano of Michigan. In fact, as of 12\/19\/2012 the bike was available via this eBay auction<\/a>. <\/p>\n