[CR]1951 BIANCHI bike - in immaculate condition

(Example: Framebuilding)

From: "The Maaslands" <TheMaaslands@comcast.net>
To: "CR" <Classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Date: Tue, 20 Nov 2007 11:25:04 -0500
Subject: [CR]1951 BIANCHI bike - in immaculate condition

Regarding the Bianchi that was outed by Norris and commented on by Mike: http://ebay.com/<blah>

While a great looking bike and quite possibly fitted with componentry that has only seen use on this bike, the componentry is by no means that which was originally fitted to the bike. It seems more likely that these components ended up on the bike as it was upgraded over its lifetime. In fact, where components have been changed, they have all been upgraded with newer higher level components or to better fit an individual owner, as if the owner was proud of his bike and continued to upgrade it as years went by. Personally I think that restoring a bike like this is in no way wrong and represents a valid alternative to restoration to original equipment as first delivered to the client.

If, however, you are of the belief that only original equipment should be fitted, then this bike is most definitiely not for you, as virtually all the components have been switched out:

The hubs originally fitted were Bianchi engraved, generally with FB marked flanges, and were not outwardly marked Campagnolo, except for the skewer. The cranks were likewise Bianchi engraved with date stamps. The bottom bracket was also Bianchi engraved with dated spindle and often cups. The bike would not have come with a double chainring, even though this was a not uncommon upgrade made by riders. To change gears with such a set-up is however extra difficult, as it involves loosening the rear skewer and then pedalling forward without applying any pressure whatsoever to the drivetrain. Campagnolo pedals were still but a gleam in the eye of Tullio when this bike was built, as the bike would likely have come with Bianchi marked, alloy-caged, pedals. These Bianchi pedals are very cool pedals, but few have survived to today. Cinelli Alloy Toeclips are also clearly wrong as they would have been steel and likely made by Cornez, Balilla or perhaps Christophe. The brake calipers appear correct, but the Bartali "roi des grimpeurs" levers are most definitely an upgrade (and super cool at that!) The bars and stem are not clearly visible in any photos, so I can't comment too much other than to state that it would appear to me that the stem is longer than what you would normally expect on a Bianchi. The FIAMME Drilled 32 40 Rims could be original, but would then have the label stating brev. Longhi. The BROOKS Type B17 Professional Leather Saddle on Alloy Seatpin could also be original and would have the oval shaped branded Brooks label on both sides. The top tube brake cable clips would not have been Campagnolo branded but rather sprung steel clips or perhaps bent tin ones, that were frequently taped over. As for the chrome and paint, I would judge it as fine. In the auction photos the chrome has a bit darker hue than what you would expect from the original, but this can easily be the result of the camera or monitor. The paint is also somewhat darker than what you would see on an original surviving paint job, but I am told by most oldtimers that all the original paint bikes have faded to a much lighter color than was orignally supplied by Bianchi. The bike is also missing some of the color highlights found on the original bikes, such as those in the chainstay 'dents' and fork crown cut-out. The original bike would also not likely have had chromed ends, but rather only dropout faces.

Even with all of this disparities, the bike is still eye candy and quite a looker. It could make for a great rider too. If you are truly interested in buying the bike to ride, I would ask for confirmation that the frame has 19 tooth dropouts in the back, as were all original Paris Roubaix bikes, as this would be important to offer enough room to shift the front derailleur.

Steven Maasland
Moorestown, NJ
USA