I have often referred to the antique bike swap meet that goes on on Sundays at Panjiayuan. You have also previously heard me talk about the bicycle shopping mecca that is Beixinqiao. Panjiayuan being a little remote, it should be no surprise that the old bike guys also get together at Beixinqiao in front of one of the pawnshops. Saturday afternoons prove to be quite a fruitful photographic opportunity.
Among the bikes in attendance were this Dutch Gazelle. Note the lugs. Sure they are not fancy and stylized like you might find on a French bike, but they are massive! You can also tell from the brake rod stirrup that it is equipped with drum brakes.
The real attraction of this bike was it's "chaincase". One single piece of chromed steel, it is heavily perforated and stylized with the Gazelle logo. How it survived so long in such good condition is probably a story in itself. It is able to be installed in one piece because the rear chainstays can be unbolted. Not an unusual feature 50 years ago. This bike also sports a Japanese Koba sidestand.
There was also an excellent Fuji example in attendance. The owner liked to put the bike on the rear stand and spin the wheel....it was a good 5 minutes before it would stop. It's still spinning in the photo!
Of course there were some Raleighs....
And anther excellent step through Raleigh, whose owner is more than pleased to be photographed with his fine machine.
Nice stuff! That "Chaincase".... it almost looks to be stainless steel? I would bet it's of an alloy similar if not.... or.... like you say, the keeping of it being a story in being meticulous beyond reproach!
It's got me thinking... (the design anyhow) for sure!
Later!
Larry "Boneman" Bone
Dingmans Ferry, PA, USA
Posted by: bonemanrides@yahoo.com | December 01, 2009 at 12:57 AM