| intakexhaust |
07-17-2015 11:14 AM |
Thanks Stuart-
I'm finally getting some good miles in on this one. And with a bit more confidence.
Since those pics, I've corrected a few parts and adjustments. Mostly late 1950's high zoot race stuff and of course with lighter race components comes wear. The rear derailleur is a Benelux by Cyclo Gear Comp. Rather advanced for its time it has true parallelogram action just about the same time Campagnolo intro'd their's. It was missing the original main pivot stop and so I decided to make a 'band-aid' replacement- was anxious to get out and ride. Only has a four speed cog. And what are they up to today? LOL
Also, the crank arms are an oddity. Surely everyone today expects to see aluminum but this one is cottered type. A steel crank is far stronger and safer for a cottered type. Virtually every cottered crank was of some steel, but aluminum was unheard of in this application. But these Swiss made Weinmann's are extra beefy yet a risk. I first used them on the shorter bottom bracket spindle because that's all I had. I now have the proper longer spindle but still have an uneasy feeling using this crank. Part of the experience I suppose.
Wheels are another subject. Rims are vintage NOS tubulars that I scored for a deal. But later learned one had a bit of egg shape going on. Quite a challenge for me to lace and dial in. Plus, I decided to stay true vintage and used early old double butted galvanized spokes (including vintage brass nipples), trimmed and re-threaded them, laced around old Brampton high flange hubs. Broke a few spokes on the one troublesome wheel, another redo and changed tension, finally is acceptable. Have tested speed in descents near 40mph.
With everything sorted and dialed in, its really a neat machine and fine rider. Rather surprised there's hardly any torsional flex. Some sort of 'magic' done by the frame builder. I'm thinking he took the time to pre-miter the tubes and fully fit the Nervex Pro lugs. Full Reynolds 531 butted. Campy drop-outs and fork ends.
BTW: Made in London by a significant frame builder, but note the French brand and team livery ;)
I'm entering an upcoming hellish 150k event and in a new category for vintage. The particular event has considerable climbs and should be quite the test with this crank and gearing. Fun, fun.
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