Updated 2.2.2010               Click on images to see larger view

This & the other B & W photos herein are from the original Confente brochure.

   This frame building artisan was brought to the USA by Faliero Masi to head up the new Masi factory on October 12, 1973. After some years of managing the Masi operation, Mario struck out on his own. Tragically, at the age of 34, Mario died on March 8, 1979. He had made 135 frames bearing his name. Confente frames are now eagerly sought by bicycling aficionados.

Russell W. Howe's article profiling Mario Confente and his life HERE
Originally written and published in Bicycle Trader 1998 

Mario aligning a fork, machining head tube of finished frame &
checking the main frame. Look closely in larger version to see
his signature spade shape cut out in the bottom bracket shell.

Left: This track bike was shown at a 70's or early 80's New York Bike Show.
Center: The "signature" spade shaped cutout, up close!
Right: Head lug & fork crown detail

Confente bicycle #19

Confente bicycle  #22

Confente bicycle #48