Comparing Platypus Generations

[Chris Buckley]

Hello folks!

I'm looking at ceding my Clem to my wife, which means I'm in the market for another Rivendell (not a bad place to be...). I'm committed to a Platypus as I think it meets all of my requirements, and if I need something more heavy duty I'll borrow back the Clem.

I know none are available now, though it's looking like maybe October? However, I'm able to buy a new old-stock Mermaid one right now. All up it would work out to be maybe $200-300 cheaper than when the next bunch release later this year.

As far as I can tell the only material change from the Mermaid-era Platypus to now is the way the top tube goes to a lug on the seat tube, and then splits into the curvy seat stays - as opposed to the Mermaid model when the top tube joined the seat tube lug-lessly and the seat stays branched out and around the seat tube. Frankly, I quite like that aesthetic.

But I'm wondering, are there any other major differences? Even just ride feel? Maybe someone like Leah who seems to own every Platypus might know?

Thanks!