Ok, a couple of us have taken the plunge and entered l'eroica http://www.eroica-ciclismo.it/english/home.asp in early October. These chaps http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3M9w9fC7tg are certainly trying hard for the 'too cool for the old skool' award but it's a tidy little video.
Obviously key is what bike to take so I thought I'd read the event rules: "All riders must be at the starting line only with historical bikes. It means road race bikes built before 1987, with switch lever on the oblique loom tube, toe clips and belts, external brake wires. The Organisation would allow other types of bikes with new looms but with vintage characteristics and assembled with original old components (switch, handlebars, pedals, etc.)". So downtube shifters, non clipless pedals and exposed brake cables it is and reckon the Raleigh Panasonic might do the job.
Then we are on to clothing - I've sourced a wool jersey (not a Panasonic one - does this matter?) and some traditional leather cycling shoes but I was also wondering whether a helmet is required but it appears not "During such special occasions (free walkings) on white or black roads is allowed the use of historical bikes, traditional costumes, historical outfits. It is also possible the derogation of the helmet." although I may need to find a cap. Would lycra be too much?
So, any thoughts on bike, tyres and gearing for the strada bianchi and, crucially, facial hair (I am unlikely to be able to grow my own so need something stick on that will be able to withstand both grimacing and sweat)?
Obviously key is what bike to take so I thought I'd read the event rules: "All riders must be at the starting line only with historical bikes. It means road race bikes built before 1987, with switch lever on the oblique loom tube, toe clips and belts, external brake wires. The Organisation would allow other types of bikes with new looms but with vintage characteristics and assembled with original old components (switch, handlebars, pedals, etc.)". So downtube shifters, non clipless pedals and exposed brake cables it is and reckon the Raleigh Panasonic might do the job.
Then we are on to clothing - I've sourced a wool jersey (not a Panasonic one - does this matter?) and some traditional leather cycling shoes but I was also wondering whether a helmet is required but it appears not "During such special occasions (free walkings) on white or black roads is allowed the use of historical bikes, traditional costumes, historical outfits. It is also possible the derogation of the helmet." although I may need to find a cap. Would lycra be too much?
So, any thoughts on bike, tyres and gearing for the strada bianchi and, crucially, facial hair (I am unlikely to be able to grow my own so need something stick on that will be able to withstand both grimacing and sweat)?
