[CR]Using old bikes

(Example: Racing:Jacques Boyer)

In-Reply-To: <CATFOODBybhoiSxibOY00002335@catfood.nt.phred.org>
References:
Date: Thu, 9 May 2002 09:15:52 -0700
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
From: "Jan Heine" <heine@mindspring.com>
Subject: [CR]Using old bikes

This is my personal opinion, obviously...

To me, a bike or any machine is more than just its looks. How does it work, what is the experience of using it?

I recently visited the Nürnberg Toy Museum in Germany, which exhibits one of the greatest collections of mechanical tin toys. They were nice, but I want to see them move, to appreciate their intricate mechanisms, etc. It is sad to think that the treasures may never move again.

The same with bicycles: To get on a Cambio Corsa-equipped bike on a nice day and ride it fast is bringing it to life. Looking at it does not convey the concentration and joy of doing the shift. The silent whirr of the derailleur-less chain. The handling that you know would be great on a gravel descent. Only when riding the bikes can I marvel at their greatness.

A problem with many racing bikes is that we lack the capabilities to really bring them to life. A Cinelli Supercorsa begins to feel great at 22+ mph. That is why I enjoy the French touring bikes. They were designed for amateurs like me, who ride and look at the scenery. They like speed, but don't need it.

It'll be even worse when we start collecting 1980s and 90s bikes. With their low handlebars, you really need to push hard on the pedals, otherwise your arms and shoulders hurt in no time...

Jan Heine, Seattle "Dreaming of doing Paris-Brest-Paris on the Rene Herse that won in 1956 - it would even fit me!"