[CR]R.O. Ro Ro the boat (sorry Harrison)

(Example: History)

From: "Bob Reid" <bob.reid1@virgin.net>
To: <Classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
In-Reply-To: <000b01c29682$62036620$1047510c@gateway>
Subject: [CR]R.O. Ro Ro the boat (sorry Harrison)
Date: Thu, 28 Nov 2002 16:01:21 +0000

Here is a real mystery not involving Elvis Costello's former manager.

Any R.O. Harrison experts or owners out there ?

See this page (excuse the photographs)

http://www.flying-scot.co.uk/harrison.html (let me know if this link doesn't work although it should)

Is this an 'R.O.' ? if so, any idea of age and/or model ?

Recognisably different from the 'norm' are the lug cut-out's, the oddly shaped rear dropouts, and the twin plate fork crown ! the owner bought it secondhand in the early sixties and was told it was an "RO", but since it had lost it's transfers / decals, and with no obvious serial number he's keen to know for sure. None of the original componentry exists, though It's still used, and to quote him "I still have the bike and use it occasionally. It is still fitted with Chater Lea pedals, Williams AB77 Alloy Splined Cotterless chainset, GB 'Synchron' brakes with Universal hooded levers, Huret 'Svelto' stainless steel front and rear changers, and finally most unusual, Maxi-Car solid spindle hubs with plain flanges, on Weinmann rims"

He also included a picture of his 30's tandem - again a mystery, but equipped with 26 year old disc brakes ! - courtesy of that classic parts company "Shimano". Of particular note are the strangely shortened rear-facing ends. Is it possible that these are so short, so as to keep the wheel adjustment within the range of what appears to be the braze-on for possibly it's original drum or coaster brake arm ?

Any help much appreciated....

Bob Reid
Stonehaven
Scotland.