Several eulogies have been written in recent days about the virtues of the French constructeur bike, and in this context I seem to recall the name of Rene Herse being to the fore. So I thought it was time that Listers were given the opportunity to see a true British bulldog of an early racing bike bike from this side of the Channel and also for British builders of traditional frames - are you reading this Kevin? - to be able to puff out their chests in national unity and nostalgic pride.
In recent weeks I have received quite a few enquiries about slack-angled easy-steering resiliently -riding sporting frames and bikes stamped with the genuine "Made in England" marque, so for those of who salivate for a Selbach, ruminate for a Russ, grudge others their Granbys, or hanker for a Hobbs or ecstasize ( Yes I know there really isn't such a word ! - Or is there?) over an EVANS, I thought that I would bring before your very eyes such a bicycle fit for rapture.
*Ebay ITEM No: 400096533767* is a *1952 EVANS Londres model gentleman's racing frame, size 22"* ** The seller *WISPAGIFTS *has evidently decided to part out the original bike as all thbits are shown attached to the frame in the photos, but only the frame is for sale. For its age it appears to be both original and in extremely good nick.
The starting price is a modest £0.99 but there is a reserve on the frame...the auction has just under 10 days to run.
I doubt that we will see a better example of this type of frame for a long while.
Norris Lockley
Setle-on-Ice
UK