I've been using a Francis X1 pump machine daily, and lately I've been able to squeeze some very good espresso out of it.

I must say, however, that my opinion runs contrary to the notion that "real" espresso is pumped out of a machine under 9 bar of pressure. I find that lever-brewed espresso simply tastes better - it is a sweeter and more full-bodied drink the mouthfeel of which is difficult to duplicate with a pump machine.

I've used four home levers, the Ponte Vecchio, Pavoni, MiniGaggia and Caravel. The PV holds its own with the other for the quality of the shots it brews, and it is by far the easiest to use. It is, in fact, much easier to dial in than the Francis also.

For entertaining any more than two people, I can't think of a lever that could be better than the Lusso, except perhaps the rare Olympia or Bezzera Club machines.

PC

That Bezzera lever machine 1st-line is selling would fit the bill nicely. Unfortunately, it's more like $3k after tax, duty and freight shipping, which is a bit much for a second espresso machine. It also doesn't really fit how I see myself using a Lusso, because of the huge case and plumb-in requirement. I'd love to own a single group commercial lever though, and I can see it happening one day.

I would also really like a commerical lever, but again, I just could not justify keeping 5l of water hot for 3 espressos a day! Actually, even the Lusso is twice what I need 99 days of 100, and the Export fits the bill perfectly.

RAS wrote:Rob, actually I think the perfect pump-companion for your Cremina is a Maximatic. Really, if you think about it, it's true. Same family, different experience, and between the two, you're ready for a house-full.

I did something close to that by complementing my Lusso with an Olympia Caffarex... Max's (slightly) bigger brother. What I like about this set-up is that if I want something other than the ristretto-type shot that Lusso gives me, I'm set with a very-capable pump machine.

Ha. Yes, the Olympia sisters!
Both built like tanks. Sexy.
Both would outlast me, and my kids.

Levers are so nice and quiet.

I have looked at the Bezzera 1 group lever and wonder if it's overkill for me. I do realize that overkill on this site is generally dismissed as some sort of myth or a cruel hoax put forth by those that compete for our finances.

Will this machine heat up a kitchen in the summer?

Will this machine need flushes to heat and/or cool the group?

How long will this machine take to reach operating temperature?

Does this machine pull a single with 1 pull and require 2 pulls for a double?

My MCAL is very satisfying, but a kitchen remodel has caused upgrade fever.

Thanks,

joat

Hi Joat,

If you are talking about this Bezzera preview-new-bezzera-lever-espresso-machine-t12705.html, you might get answers to your questions from Jim in said thread.

Just a thought!

Javier

Bob_McBob wrote: I'd love to own a single group commercial lever though, and I can see it happening one day.

So looking at your status, it seems you pulled the lever (pun intended) on that used Lusso? Liking it so far?

Something came up with the seller, so I haven't actually been able to purchase it yet