[CR]Rene Herse Tandem for sale (in the US)

(Example: Racing:Wayne Stetina)

Date: Tue, 29 Apr 2008 22:54:49 -0400 (EDT)
From: <wheelman@nac.net>
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Subject: [CR]Rene Herse Tandem for sale (in the US)

For Sale, early 50s Rene Herse Tandem bicycle. Measurements are all C to C, Captains down tube 56.5 cm while the top tube is also 56.5 cm. The Stoker down tube is 53 cm while the top tube is 57 cm. I have had this tandem for a few years now and do not use it so it is better with someone who will. I initially thought that I could use some of the parts from it for my single RH builds but that was not the case. The bike is as I received it, complete with the following.

* Front and rear RH stems * Mafac brake levers * Rear Rene Herse cantilever brakes * Front DiaComp cantilever brakes * Rene Herse cantilever hanger pulleys * 650B Maxi Car tandem hubs * 3 Stronglight crank arms and rings * 1 right rear Rene Herse crank arm * Cyclo 5V-2.38 push pull rear shifter/derailleur * Rene Herse front lever changer * Mephisto A-Blocs 650B rims 36 front, 40 rear with wired and soldered spokes at cross * Wolber Super Randonneur 650 tires * Front and rear Rene Herse racks * Bell on front stem minus striker * Stronglight headset * 3 Bell wingnuts 1 other brand * Several braze ons for generator and lights * Unique pump braze ons under frame plus old aluminum pump included. * Ideale #5 front and Ideale #38 rear saddles * Chain slap guard braze ons for the chain stay * Water bottle braze ons for Captain & Stoker * Lyotard pedals * Durex RBN aluminum fenders with original blue stripe * Luxor front light * SKF BB on stoker * What looks to be a Rene Herse seat post on Captains saddle

I hope this text is coming out okay as I edited this message several times before sending and my email system has a habit of disjointing edited text.

More photos than you will have time to scrutinize but check them out anyway. Hi-Res of these same shots avail upon request. See them here…

http://www.flickr.com/photos/26088205@N02/

Now for the issues...

* Wiring for lights still in the frame holes but not complete and not hooked up (see photos) * No rear reflectors or lights * Light pitting in chrome on frame. Not bad as you can see in the photos. * Chrome worn behind both BBs especially the stoker, light surface rust in this area (see photo) * Braze on guides for rear brake cable worn through (see photos)

Final observations:

This is a nice rider and is sturdy and very nice looking. The lug work is stunning as the photos will show. A lot of neighbors stopped by as I was taking these photos to remark on the bike and its condition for its age. The chrome is typical for that period. The pitting is there but not bad overall. I have taken a lot of photos so you can see for yourself. As mentioned, I can send a hi-res of any photo should you want to blow it up and examine things closer yourself. The bike is pretty light for a tandem at just 38 to 39 pounds. There are no serial numbers on the frame or fork. I was told that this might mean it was made for a close friend or family member but I cannot say that for sure as I just don't know what it means. I believe a fellow list member has worked on this bike with its past owner and if he wishes to chime in he may have additional information about the bike.

I will work with anyone on shipping terms and options. This bike can be delivered to T-Town on Saturday or at Le Cirque in June. If my wife rode, this bike would not be leaving me as I have grown fond of it. I greased all the bearings and movable areas. I just cannot see it sit around and collect dust anymore. I have dusted it, maintained the saddles with proofhide and pumped up the tires to many times for something I do not ride.

My asking price is $5000 and delivery free to T-town, Le Cirque or a 75 mile radius from Elizabeth, NJ. All other delivery options to be discussed prior to purchase. Here is your chance to avoid international customs and shipping charges on top of the bike cost. Please contact me off list at Wheelman@nac.net if interested. All questions will be answered and all comments considered so don’t be shy.

Ray Homiski

Elizabeth, New Jersey, United States