(Matthew Line)
I bought #4962 about 2018 on eBay. The size is 57cm top tube, 58cm to seat tube.
I have cleaned and serviced it but tried not to do too much, as much of it is in its original condition. It still has its original metallic brown paint and badges, untouched and in great condition except for minor rusting. Original components are:
- Simplex rear derailleur
- Campagnolo Gran Sport front mech
- cyclo bar end gear change for the front derailleur.
- GB Spearpoint stem
- Mafac Cantilever brakes, with the original brazed-on cantilever bosses.
- TA aluminium alloy chain set,
- early lightweight Lyotard pedals
Where necessary and appropriate I have gradually replaced parts contemporaneous with its age.
- a vintage Brook’s saddle to replace the Wrights W3N saddle – mainly for comfort reasons.
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I have added leather bar tape and leather bag for tools.
The most important thing though, is that it is not a museum piece. I ride it almost every day and undertake week long tours mainly around Britain. It rides with perfect balance and poise – like a thoroughbred. I have travelled up the coasts and around quite a lot of England. I’ve also travelled through the Alps between Ludwig II’s castles, tracked the English frontline as far as I was able in the WW1 battlefields in France. Possibly most enjoyably travelled round the forests and lakes of La Brenne in the old Touraine and Berry provinces of central France in search of the Lost Domain from Alain Fournier’s Le Grand Meaulnes.
