[CR] Tubular cranks - GB brand?

(Example: Production Builders:Frejus)

From: "Mark Bulgier" <mark@bulgier.net>
To: "'Classicrendezvous@bikelist.org'" <Classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Subject: [CR] Tubular cranks - GB brand?
Date: Thu, 29 Aug 2002 14:10:43 -0700


Anyone know these cranks? Made with a piece of fairly thick wall ovalized tubing, brazed at the ends to machined pieces for the pedal thread and the piece that attaches to the cottered axle.

http://bulgier.net/pics/bike/Parts/EnglishTubularCranks1.jpg and http://bulgier.net/pics/bike/Parts/EnglishTubularCranks2.jpg

I got 'em from Martin Coopland who thought they were GB wedge lock cranks, from the late 50s or early 60s, but he wasn't sure.

I don't know what they thought they were accomplishing with that odd cotter design other than making the crank and cotter harder to make, and not interchangeable with standard parts - can anyone think of any advantage to that, other than cool looking? (Works for me!) Differentiates their product I guess, but I'd better be very careful not to bung up those cotters.

I'd especially like to hear if they have a reputation as death cranks, 'cuz I think I'd like to put these on a bike to ride.

Mark Bulgier
Seattle, Wa
USA