20min YouTube Cycling Documentary: "The Lost Merckx" with Gerry Shields

[sjcprojects]

I just came across this nice little film on YouTube which is well worth a watch. It tells the story of how Gerry Shields (97 years-old when this was filmed) bought one of Merckx's personal bikes in 1974. It's subtitled 'The Ultimate Cycling Barnfind' which isn't quite accurate, as it was actually in the attic of Gerry's bike shop, not a barn – but anyway, it's a great story with some amusing little asides from Gerry.

 

[vtwinvince]

Very cool doc, with some wicked bikes.

 

[Frankenorange]

What fun little doc. Thank you

 

[Canuk]

Steel Vintage Bikes are probably en route with a chequebook to Manchester

 

[non-fixie]

That is wonderful! Thanks for posting.

Interesting to hear mr Shields refer to Ferdinand Kessels as Merkx' manager, as well as to hear how the franchise deals with Clements and others were actually organised: by selling the decal sets. I suspect that was one of mr Kessels' management tasks.

 

[sjcprojects]

I particularly liked Gerry Shield's comment about pro's being willing to sell anything, having been told Merckx would never sell the bike. Of course he was proved right about that.

 

[LondonClassic]

Thanks for posting this up @sjcprojects . Everyone loves it when an urban myth isn't a myth. Gerry seemed mentally sharp and active until the end, which is tremendous.

 

[sjcprojects]

I wonder what happened to those frames and bikes, given that Gerry died in 2023?

 

[Canuk]

I particularly liked Gerry Shield's comment about pro's being willing to sell anything, having been told Merckx would never sell the bike. Of course he was proved right about that.

Can testify. The French ex pro I'm pally with has just punted the last of his signed yellow jersey collection. He only kept one - a Moser signed white Tour jersey from the 70s. Best young rider I think. Last time I was round his house he had a wardrobe full of em. All the bikes gone too. I kinda respect their lack of sentimental attachment. I guess the experience of it is good and intense enough to last a lifetime.

Pros really will sell anything!