Good day listers,
Now and then I put in a bid for a Belgian bike, on one of those 'craigs list like' websites; usually i dont get any response (maybe my bids are too low ...), but i'm patient, sometimes it works out fine. As in this case. And, i like the drive into that other country, so close, but so different.
So last Saturday I picked up this 1983 Plum Vainqueur, which happens to be exactly my size (seattube 58 c-t, toptube 56,5 c-c). Although the bike's from 83, the decal style (IMO) is more 70s, and very charming (IMO, again!). Beats any Colnago or Masi. Again, IMHO! Plum Vainqueur has some history, in earlier days they were called Plume Vainqueur. i think the marque has been described on the list before.
Some things are remarkable in this bike, besides the very good condition. The tubing f.i.: Tange Champion no. 2. And the headlugs: long point lugs both topside and underside. I always thought it was a good idea to shorten the underside of the lugs. And, like more bikes I got in Belgium, its fitted with tubulars. Seems to be quite popular still; even got 3 new ones to go with the bike. Thank you, mr. Koen! Anyway, once I've exchanged the rock-hard Brooks saddle for something i can stand, I'll give this bike a try. I'm curious!
Pics are here:
http://www.wooljersey.com/
Freek Faro
Rotterdam Netherlands