[CR]Euro and classic types

(Example: Production Builders:Cinelli)

Date: Wed, 28 Aug 2002 09:59:40 -0700
From: "Terence Shaw" <terence@shawscycles.com>
To: <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
In-Reply-To: <000001c24eaa$f4d79090$0200000a@biker2>
Subject: [CR]Euro and classic types

Tsk..Tsk to paraphrase Peter Rich, "how can you...if you don't understand which hand controls the front brake". From "Cycling" (the C.O.N.I. book) "The right-hand lever one normally puts on the front brake. In fact, since the right hand is generally more sensitive than the left, it is thus easier to coordinate braking... It is clear that, in the case of the cyclist being left handed, the left hand lever will work on the front wheel" My '70's Schwinn sales training taught me that right to left to front braking would eliminate sales objections from new cyclist (Worried about high siding their first hand brake equiped bike). Eliminate sales objections sell faster. Campagnolo and other "pro" brakes are designed for right to front with classic non aero levers. Schwinn approved sidepulls have the cable attaching on the opposite side of the caliper. Lots of arguments pro and con. I set the bikes in my store right to front as a sales technique always eager to switch per customer preference.

Another subject. When I started riding "lightweights" I was told to ride steel crank arms or at least the more durable Stronglight. I agree with Jim that size and riding style are the big factors, but, the first crank arm I broke was a Stronglight 93. I've broken 5 or six N /S Record track and road arms both left and right. DA 7401 left and a few TA.. They were all old and beat, made of aluminum alloy and the only ones that are replacable with classic model new stock are the TA. Terence Shaw Santa Clara, California