[CR]Re: Lejeune restoration

(Example: Framebuilding)

To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
From: "Ken Wehrenberg" <wnwires@htc.net>
Subject: [CR]Re: Lejeune restoration
Date: Tue, 14 Sep 2004 16:13:06 -0500


Lynn and list:

One and a half years ago I bought a never-been-built-up 531 model LeJeune. 1972 or 3. Fragile 531 decal was squished a bit and the wheel spokes in the original box from France had apparently damaged the downtube decal on one side. Sent it to Susan Cunningham to have her retouch the decal and now I cannot see the spot in question. Nice job! Also procured a replacement French 531 decal. Built it up as an Audax sort of bike around a polished Stronglight 99 crank. I loved this crank on an old Follis I rode back in the day. It's still awaiting polished stainless Berthoud fenders installation-- yeah it is not period-perfect, but very much in the spirit and style of Frenchiness.

The 531 LeJeunes came with chrome ends or sometimes without (mine is a without). Sometimes the chome ends were drilled as well. Saw a lot of those coming out of Pasadena in the early '70s, generally on the block lettered ones, too. I believe LeJeunes were sourced from several builder sources, hence the variabilities. I agree with whoever stated that LeJeune workmanship can be stunning at times and I think mine is one of them. Very nice lug lining, points trimmed away, the lining just ends, and the lugs are thinned/feathered near the point areas as well.

Ken Wehrenberg, Hermann, MO in the midst of grape harvest