1950s fixie french origin?

[gibbleking]

just got given this by my gfs dad to mess about with.....

 

[gibbleking]

some more....i didnt red oxide the frame but from what i can see there isnt any rust on there at all...not bad for its age.

 

[gibbleking]

last ones...

i do like the chainset ...novel idea..


the bike is very light as well ...i dont have any scales to hand so i cant weigh the bugger....

 

[Old Ned]

What makes you think it's French? It looks like a good quality British 'small builder' frame from the early 50's to me, with those lugs, rear ends (Osgear style) and seat stay tops, possibly a well known one. A bit of research is called for, start here -

http://www.classiclightweights.co.uk/

Trawl through frame builders and then readers bikes, I'm sure something will jump out at you eventually.

 

[keithglos]

Agree with Ned here, early 1950's, looks like brampton cast lugs. French frame would have bottom bracket threads both right hand.
Possibly made for 26" wheels?
I would expect the chainwheel bolts to loosen.

 

[biggs682]

very nice looking classic

 

[gibbleking]

thanks all...i just wish i knew more about old road bikes...mtbs are more my thing ...but i do appreciate a well lugged frame when i see one...

footnote

the red oxide paint comes off very easily ...it looks to be sound underneath the thick paint...the grease nipple on the bb is handy

 

[gibbleking]

oh ...ill be taling a close up of the headset in the morning ...its got silver paint all over it so im not sure i can id the thing...

 

[Woz]

That chainset looks brilliant. Skinny cranks and close ratio. Seems very worthy of refurb, but striking the balance to keep to it's character.

 

[alecstilleyedye]

I would expect the chainwheel bolts to loosen.

oh yes indeed, especially 40 miles from home and stripping the thread to boot.

thank heaven for clubmates who carry cable ties…