Re: [CR] black rims... 1976?

(Example: Events:Cirque du Cyclisme:2004)

Date: Fri, 4 Sep 2009 13:35:13 -0700
From: "brad stockwell" <brdstockwell@yahoo.com>
To: Classic Rendezvous <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
In-Reply-To: <4A9F9DEF.5070204@verizon.net>
Subject: Re: [CR] black rims... 1976?


Harvey asked when black rims showed up.

I don't know the answer, but here are two data points:

The first time I ever saw black rims that could be purchased by just-plain-Joes was in a Bicycling! review of a Ciocc, it was probably early 80's but I'll have to check when I get home.  I think the brand name was Ambrosio Durex and the article referred to them as "ceramic coated" rims which were alleged by the manufacturer to be stronger than normal rims, and that, as a piece of optional equipment they added $100 to the cost of the bike.  

Of course, I suppose 'ceramic coated' could be said of just about any aluminum which has been exposed to air and formed an oxide layer.  

 In historical hindsight, though, it turns out that I also have a photo of Lucien Van Impe from the 1976 Tour which shows black rims. 

Brad Stockwell
Palo Alto CA USA