I am thinking about buying an older Merlin frame. It fits me well size-wise and is in excellent condition. Other than having a 1" head tube, why would I not want this frame? I already have high quality 1" forks/headsets, so my $ outlay would be relatively small compared with the latest dreambikes out there. This bike has rave reviews on this site and elsewhere. Everyone says this bike will last forever and this one is 5+ years old. Is that forever for a bike?

It's Ti, light weight & Merlin. Go for it?

I am thinking about buying an older Merlin frame. It fits me well size-wise and is in excellent condition. Other than having a 1" head tube, why would I not want this frame? I already have high quality 1" forks/headsets, so my $ outlay would be relatively small compared with the latest dreambikes out there. This bike has rave reviews on this site and elsewhere. Everyone says this bike will last forever and this one is 5+ years old. Is that forever for a bike?

It's Ti, light weight & Merlin. Go for it?

It will be a great bike to ride. It's TI. Unfortunately, warranty will end when the bike passes to you (both merlin and litespeed offer lifetime warranty to original owners only). Titanium will most likely ride like the day it was born. If something does happen (to a weld or tubing) I am sure Merlin would be more than willing to help you--they will want to keep their riders and customers satisfied and riding.

Sounds like everything else is perfect for you: price, quality of craftmanship and feel.