By way of updating my previous post, I was made aware by one very polite list member that there were several "Time Trial Specific" bicycles made prior to this Gitane prototype (1978/9). I do not doubt that there were many bikes set up and even built specifically for Time Trialing...Gitane did it too with Anquetil in the 1960's.
My claim is that this bike is the first to use new "Aero" technology in the actual design of the bicycle. Previous TT bikes used different gearing and geometry to improve the rider's aerodynamics and positioning. However, the truly revolutionary thing about the Gitane cited is that the bicycle itself was designed to be more aerodynamic: From the tubing to the internally routed cables (shifter cables and brake cables). Also, look at the bar, which appear to be a drilled and otherwise modified Belleri track bar, and the stem, which I cannot identify (perhaps someone here could help out?).
I have another question about the Mavic Rims: Were those a prototype, or were there actually some "deep dish" aero wheels around in the 1970's? I was unaware of any....
Stephan Andranian Costa Mesa, CA http://www.GitaneUSA.com
sandranian <sandranian@yahoo.com> wrote: A forum member at http://www.GitaneUSA.com recently posted this rare find: A museum in France has Hinault's first Gitane Time Trial bike, which was developed by Renault/Gitane. It is, I believe, the first example of a time-trial specific bicycle (not just parts), and lends some credibility to the claim that Gitane "invented" the TT bike. Anyhow, that is the theory. Check out the picture of the bike (scroll down a bit...and I am sure there are some other interesting things for all of you on that page).
http://www.museedusport.jeunesse-sports.gouv.fr/
Then, check out the video. After the introduction, there is video of the bike being examined by a bunch of folk (including Guimard) and some cool shots of Hinault racing.
http://fr.video.yahoo.com/
I look forward to your replies...specially those regarding my "boasts" about Gitane!
Stephan Andranian Costa Mesa, CA http://www.GitaneUSA.com
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