Second chances

This 1974 De Rosa is just another example of the life you can breathe into an old frame with some T.L.C. (time, labour, coin)

MS had tried to buy a previous FYXO project when it was on display at Trak Cycles to no avail, which is how he stumbled on this corner of the internet.   After an email and phone discussion the desires, both vague and clear were made and the foundations of another project were poured.

He had also been turning the Internet inside out in search of something he liked, sending me links to frames that were akin to the tale of Goldilocks.  Some were too big, some were too small, some were just right but too rough, too rusted or poorly resprayed.

One frame couldn’t escape his thoughts and it was the right size, in great shape and no reason to hesitate.  Some time later it landed in Australia.

I’d amassed a small stash of De Rosa pantographed components that would suit the build. Brake levers, stem, chainring, and shifters – the latter were too modern for period correctish-ness and used as a keyring.

I’d been so impressed with Patebury’s work on the Richard Sachs project that opting for this look again was a no brainer.  The stitched finish is truly outstanding.  They have now turned their hands and needles to bags and other life accessories.

Greg Softley - The Godfather helped out with Martano rims decals which disguise this modern rim perfectly.   Classic lacing pattern to Super Record piccole mozzi ( low flange hubs).

Only a tyre with a gum sidewall will do for these builds and on this occasion Vittoria was the choice.

Assembled on a lazy Sunday afternoon to the sounds of Cannonball Adderley.

Finally a photo with the Team and the bike was on it's way to Adelaide.