It’s a Kidernay hub. Nice bit of kit. Hydraulic shifting as you say. A friend of mine uses one on his Kinetics Brompton.
More info here:
https://kindernay.com/
Vintage French randonneuer's and porteurs.
- Thread starter Guinessisgoodforyou
- Start date
More info here:
https://kindernay.com/
Guinessisgoodforyou
rBotM Winner
A very nice AMR built up from a frame, nice and sympathetically done imo. A great story which will resonate with many of us.
Translation below with a link. Super Amazing! So you can go and actually look for yourself
https://www.velovintageagogo.com/t11488p50-randonneuse-amr
Here is a beautiful AMR frame that I was lucky enough to find on Troc Velo.
I stumbled upon it by chance while looking for a steel CX frame to build a versatile commuter bike (since I work in the countryside).
I admit I fell in love with it. According to the seller, it has never been assembled, and indeed, it is superb. The poorly exposed photos don't do it justice. I'll take more when the weather is nice.
It has a few scratches from storage, but I've never seen a frame of this age in such good condition.
The seller was great because he made me a bulletproof package.
There are photos of the serial number: 1384. That must mean 84 is the year of manufacture.
As for the weight, it's super light. The seller said it was SV971. I was sceptical because I imagined that AMR mainly used their Camus tubes. In the end, he must be right because, judging by the scale, it's not a constant thickness tube.
The goal (if possible) is to assemble it in a neo-retro style with classic components. I have an Ultegra 6500 groupset in a box and I've found some Dura Ace 7700 levers that can be mounted on bar ends or on the frame.
That would give me a 12-27 at the rear and with a compact at the front, it will be quite versatile.
I'm going to focus on finding wheels that take a Shimano 9-speed cassette but are fairly understated, classic aluminium rims - 32 or 36 spokes.
A quick update on the AMR. The fork and frame have been reassembled using a JDD Stronglight X12 from the Scapin. I managed to find a Velo Orange handlebar that isn't too modern and two pairs of NOS cantilever brakes that were lying around.
I found a great bottom bracket sold in French sizes, but in the end... not French. I put a nice clean Sugino in its place.
I put temporary DP18s on it to ride around, but I think they suit it well.
Now I just need to find a pair of Shimano 8/9/10 speed wheels that aren't too modern in style and a triple Campagnolo Chorus-style crankset.
It's starting to take shape. I have the crankset, pedals, wheels (not yet assembled), cassette and groupset.
All I need now are the brake levers, mudguards and a few bits and pieces. I'll probably change the seat tube and saddle eventually too.
I was hesitating to make it a real gravel bike, with big tyres and all that, and then I didn't feel like having stone chips on the frame. So it will be a really light touring/commuter bike, even with the Crankbrothers cranks.
I need to find some suitable tyres, probably Panaracer Gravelking for versatility.
The leather saddle is on its way. The seat post will also be changed. I was unsure about the TA. I'll see once the rest of the equipment is fitted.
New wheels fitted with temporary tyres so I can make the GB adjustments. It's starting to look a bit more like a touring bike and less like a CX. That's good, because it's pretty much what I had in mind.
I'll spare you the details of my struggles to find screws with the right diameter to fix everything into the inserts. In the end, I managed it with bell screws.
Of course, since the GBs come from another bike, the holes are not in the right place. So I made myself a little ‘old-fashioned’ plate to hide the mess a bit. I think I'll replace the visible screw with a rivet, it'll look better.
I admit that I haven't looked into the gearing. For now, I've just slapped on a cassette I had in stock.
I have a few extra sprockets to adapt, but nothing above 25 for the moment. Once the indexing is properly adjusted and all the problems have been ironed out, I'll have to rationalise all this.
Actually, I'm pretty new to indexed derailleurs. I have too much vintage stuff at home. First I need to see if the short cage derailleur can handle the triple properly.
The AMR is progressing slowly. It is currently in beta to test the configuration on the road.
The group works well. The indexing was perfect without even adjusting the tension. It's a change from the hassle of the scapin.
I found the hassle elsewhere, in installing the guido (Handlebar? GIGFY) to run all the wiring. I had to do it three times and it's still not perfect.
The rear indexed, front friction combo is exactly what I was looking for, and adjusting the cantilevers is a breeze compared to Mafacs (especially for giving the pads a slight tilt to eliminate squeaking).
I'm going to do a few test rides to fine-tune everything. I already think I'll have to change the bottom bracket axle for one that's a few millimetres shorter to improve the chain line a little.
On the other hand, I had to do without the small sprocket because of the GB rod attachment. I don't care, I don't have powerful legs anyway!
The goal, if I manage to save up enough money, is a triple ‘TA like’ with Vélo Orange chainrings that accept 10v. I think that even if the TAs can handle 9v, it might rub on certain chain crossings.
Finally, I'm thinking of getting MKS mixed pedals (with or without cleats) with the EZY system for removing them. This is handy for transport but also deters theft.
I'm also eyeing up a black Brooks Cambium All Weather saddle, which is nicer than my current one. I've treated myself to an Ostrich F104 and a small Nitto Avant luggage rack.
Right, it's on the road. I got a small Nitto luggage rack and took advantage of the PlanetX deal on Ostrich panniers. First ride to adjust it. Need to tighten the front wheel and adjust the brakes.
I can confirm that it's extremely comfortable. The handlebar is a simple D4 lined with gel pads.
I love CX-style shifters. I already had experience with them on my old Gitane touring bike, but now, with indexing, they're even better.
As for the water bottle, the answer is simple. I couldn't find a screw with the right thread. I had the same problem with the bottom bracket mount and found a bell mounting screw that fit.
Since the frame is NOS, I don't want to re-tap it, so there you go. I keep the water bottle in my bag. For the saddle, it will be a black Cambium. I'm just waiting to pay off the budget for the house renovations.
I had the opportunity to come across a Campagnolo triple crankset. It already looks much better.
I'm taking advantage of an AMR update to post some new photos.
It's been ridden a lot since the last post, including a trip along the Loire by bike. It's definitely the bike that gets ridden the most in the collection.
Recently (i.e. this weekend) it finally got a large cage derailleur (an almost brand new Ultegra 6500).
For the Loire cycle route, I invested in a pair of stainless steel Tara tubes, which will remain on the bike permanently.
I also changed the pedals for Crankbrothers Candy. I had removed the SPDs to take them to Réunion to ride with a friend and forgot them there.
It's going to get a V3 upgrade. First, I need to improve the cockpit. I'm currently on a 110/115 stem and a VO handlebar with a 115 reach. It's way too long.
The bike is super comfortable, but the shifters are too far away. Plus, I broke my elbow a year and a half ago and lost all extension. So, to shorten everything while keeping the ‘classic handlebar’ look, I'm doing my research.
I would like to gain 3/4cm with a shorter reach handlebar and a shorter stem. The 25.4/26 stem is not a problem, as it fits well with a 22.2 stem. I will sand it down a little to fit into the 22.0mm tube. For the handlebars, I've seen the Nitto B136AA with a reach of 100.
Next up will be:
Wheels with dynamo hubs
A PV8 precision shutter because I can't afford a SON
Black H PLUS SON TB14s (36t/36t)
Probably a DTswiss rear or a Hope if I win the lottery.
Lighting system with USB charging at least, to maintain a decent battery level.
A rear pannier rack attached to the saddle (Carradice type) to relieve the straps.
I had already been eyeing up the 132/135/136. They all have their respective advantages and disadvantages.
I like parallel handlebars. That's what I have at the moment (VO Grand Cru Course). It's just not a ‘butterfly’ style like the Nitto.
The Compass/RH ones look great too, but the price hurts my eyes.
I'm wondering if I shouldn't just try an 80/90 stem while keeping the handlebars, which I'll trim at the bottom for bar ends if necessary.
As for the hub, The PV8 has very good reviews, the only thing that bothers me is that it makes the umbrella more ‘straight’. I'm not sure if that affects the rigidity. With DT Alpine III spokes crossed in threes, it should be fine.
In any case, I've already started the ball rolling by buying the rims. That gives me time to make my choice.
The AMR has undergone a number of minor updates.
The bag holder is effective enough to hold the Ostrich in place, despite being a tad short. The expedition model may be longer, but I haven't checked.
As a result, it ends up sticking out a bit, but apart from the aesthetic aspect, it works fine.
What's particularly good is that there's a ‘slot’ in the bag so that it can slide onto the holder, which completely eliminates any tendency to wobble.
Second recent update:
I found a deal on some Challenge Elite 27" tubular tyres. I compulsively bought four of them.
After realising that they wouldn't fit on either the Cyfac or the Gazelle, they were left sitting in a corner.
Recently, I found a nice pair of wheels. Mavic Open 2CD rims on 5500 hubs, all recently laced with quality spokes and at an attractive price.
So I took the plunge and attempted the heretical combination (or not, for that matter) of tubular wheels on a touring bike, as an alternative set of wheels.
Visually, it looks good. It seems lighter although on a touring bike, that's not the priority. They're not glued, so they can relax.
Next up is an 80mm 3TTT stem with a new 25.4 handlebar (the current one is 26). Maybe a Nitto 135 if I have the money, which I like for its ‘parallel’ design. Shortening the cockpit will be welcome. I might even take the opportunity to add some additional CX-type levers so I can cruise with my hands on the flat part of the handlebars. Of course, I'll have to make a new homemade spacer or buy a Berthoud.
Translation below with a link. Super Amazing! So you can go and actually look for yourself
https://www.velovintageagogo.com/t11488p50-randonneuse-amr
Here is a beautiful AMR frame that I was lucky enough to find on Troc Velo.
I stumbled upon it by chance while looking for a steel CX frame to build a versatile commuter bike (since I work in the countryside).
I admit I fell in love with it. According to the seller, it has never been assembled, and indeed, it is superb. The poorly exposed photos don't do it justice. I'll take more when the weather is nice.
It has a few scratches from storage, but I've never seen a frame of this age in such good condition.
The seller was great because he made me a bulletproof package.
There are photos of the serial number: 1384. That must mean 84 is the year of manufacture.
As for the weight, it's super light. The seller said it was SV971. I was sceptical because I imagined that AMR mainly used their Camus tubes. In the end, he must be right because, judging by the scale, it's not a constant thickness tube.
The goal (if possible) is to assemble it in a neo-retro style with classic components. I have an Ultegra 6500 groupset in a box and I've found some Dura Ace 7700 levers that can be mounted on bar ends or on the frame.
That would give me a 12-27 at the rear and with a compact at the front, it will be quite versatile.
I'm going to focus on finding wheels that take a Shimano 9-speed cassette but are fairly understated, classic aluminium rims - 32 or 36 spokes.
A quick update on the AMR. The fork and frame have been reassembled using a JDD Stronglight X12 from the Scapin. I managed to find a Velo Orange handlebar that isn't too modern and two pairs of NOS cantilever brakes that were lying around.
I found a great bottom bracket sold in French sizes, but in the end... not French. I put a nice clean Sugino in its place.
I put temporary DP18s on it to ride around, but I think they suit it well.
Now I just need to find a pair of Shimano 8/9/10 speed wheels that aren't too modern in style and a triple Campagnolo Chorus-style crankset.
It's starting to take shape. I have the crankset, pedals, wheels (not yet assembled), cassette and groupset.
All I need now are the brake levers, mudguards and a few bits and pieces. I'll probably change the seat tube and saddle eventually too.
I was hesitating to make it a real gravel bike, with big tyres and all that, and then I didn't feel like having stone chips on the frame. So it will be a really light touring/commuter bike, even with the Crankbrothers cranks.
I need to find some suitable tyres, probably Panaracer Gravelking for versatility.
The leather saddle is on its way. The seat post will also be changed. I was unsure about the TA. I'll see once the rest of the equipment is fitted.
New wheels fitted with temporary tyres so I can make the GB adjustments. It's starting to look a bit more like a touring bike and less like a CX. That's good, because it's pretty much what I had in mind.
I'll spare you the details of my struggles to find screws with the right diameter to fix everything into the inserts. In the end, I managed it with bell screws.
Of course, since the GBs come from another bike, the holes are not in the right place. So I made myself a little ‘old-fashioned’ plate to hide the mess a bit. I think I'll replace the visible screw with a rivet, it'll look better.
I admit that I haven't looked into the gearing. For now, I've just slapped on a cassette I had in stock.
I have a few extra sprockets to adapt, but nothing above 25 for the moment. Once the indexing is properly adjusted and all the problems have been ironed out, I'll have to rationalise all this.
Actually, I'm pretty new to indexed derailleurs. I have too much vintage stuff at home. First I need to see if the short cage derailleur can handle the triple properly.
The AMR is progressing slowly. It is currently in beta to test the configuration on the road.
The group works well. The indexing was perfect without even adjusting the tension. It's a change from the hassle of the scapin.
I found the hassle elsewhere, in installing the guido (Handlebar? GIGFY) to run all the wiring. I had to do it three times and it's still not perfect.
The rear indexed, front friction combo is exactly what I was looking for, and adjusting the cantilevers is a breeze compared to Mafacs (especially for giving the pads a slight tilt to eliminate squeaking).
I'm going to do a few test rides to fine-tune everything. I already think I'll have to change the bottom bracket axle for one that's a few millimetres shorter to improve the chain line a little.
On the other hand, I had to do without the small sprocket because of the GB rod attachment. I don't care, I don't have powerful legs anyway!
The goal, if I manage to save up enough money, is a triple ‘TA like’ with Vélo Orange chainrings that accept 10v. I think that even if the TAs can handle 9v, it might rub on certain chain crossings.
Finally, I'm thinking of getting MKS mixed pedals (with or without cleats) with the EZY system for removing them. This is handy for transport but also deters theft.
I'm also eyeing up a black Brooks Cambium All Weather saddle, which is nicer than my current one. I've treated myself to an Ostrich F104 and a small Nitto Avant luggage rack.
Right, it's on the road. I got a small Nitto luggage rack and took advantage of the PlanetX deal on Ostrich panniers. First ride to adjust it. Need to tighten the front wheel and adjust the brakes.
I can confirm that it's extremely comfortable. The handlebar is a simple D4 lined with gel pads.
I love CX-style shifters. I already had experience with them on my old Gitane touring bike, but now, with indexing, they're even better.
As for the water bottle, the answer is simple. I couldn't find a screw with the right thread. I had the same problem with the bottom bracket mount and found a bell mounting screw that fit.
Since the frame is NOS, I don't want to re-tap it, so there you go. I keep the water bottle in my bag. For the saddle, it will be a black Cambium. I'm just waiting to pay off the budget for the house renovations.
I had the opportunity to come across a Campagnolo triple crankset. It already looks much better.
I'm taking advantage of an AMR update to post some new photos.
It's been ridden a lot since the last post, including a trip along the Loire by bike. It's definitely the bike that gets ridden the most in the collection.
Recently (i.e. this weekend) it finally got a large cage derailleur (an almost brand new Ultegra 6500).
For the Loire cycle route, I invested in a pair of stainless steel Tara tubes, which will remain on the bike permanently.
I also changed the pedals for Crankbrothers Candy. I had removed the SPDs to take them to Réunion to ride with a friend and forgot them there.
It's going to get a V3 upgrade. First, I need to improve the cockpit. I'm currently on a 110/115 stem and a VO handlebar with a 115 reach. It's way too long.
The bike is super comfortable, but the shifters are too far away. Plus, I broke my elbow a year and a half ago and lost all extension. So, to shorten everything while keeping the ‘classic handlebar’ look, I'm doing my research.
I would like to gain 3/4cm with a shorter reach handlebar and a shorter stem. The 25.4/26 stem is not a problem, as it fits well with a 22.2 stem. I will sand it down a little to fit into the 22.0mm tube. For the handlebars, I've seen the Nitto B136AA with a reach of 100.
Next up will be:
Wheels with dynamo hubs
A PV8 precision shutter because I can't afford a SON
Black H PLUS SON TB14s (36t/36t)
Probably a DTswiss rear or a Hope if I win the lottery.
Lighting system with USB charging at least, to maintain a decent battery level.
A rear pannier rack attached to the saddle (Carradice type) to relieve the straps.
I had already been eyeing up the 132/135/136. They all have their respective advantages and disadvantages.
I like parallel handlebars. That's what I have at the moment (VO Grand Cru Course). It's just not a ‘butterfly’ style like the Nitto.
The Compass/RH ones look great too, but the price hurts my eyes.
I'm wondering if I shouldn't just try an 80/90 stem while keeping the handlebars, which I'll trim at the bottom for bar ends if necessary.
As for the hub, The PV8 has very good reviews, the only thing that bothers me is that it makes the umbrella more ‘straight’. I'm not sure if that affects the rigidity. With DT Alpine III spokes crossed in threes, it should be fine.
In any case, I've already started the ball rolling by buying the rims. That gives me time to make my choice.
The AMR has undergone a number of minor updates.
The bag holder is effective enough to hold the Ostrich in place, despite being a tad short. The expedition model may be longer, but I haven't checked.
As a result, it ends up sticking out a bit, but apart from the aesthetic aspect, it works fine.
What's particularly good is that there's a ‘slot’ in the bag so that it can slide onto the holder, which completely eliminates any tendency to wobble.
Second recent update:
I found a deal on some Challenge Elite 27" tubular tyres. I compulsively bought four of them.
After realising that they wouldn't fit on either the Cyfac or the Gazelle, they were left sitting in a corner.
Recently, I found a nice pair of wheels. Mavic Open 2CD rims on 5500 hubs, all recently laced with quality spokes and at an attractive price.
So I took the plunge and attempted the heretical combination (or not, for that matter) of tubular wheels on a touring bike, as an alternative set of wheels.
Visually, it looks good. It seems lighter although on a touring bike, that's not the priority. They're not glued, so they can relax.
Next up is an 80mm 3TTT stem with a new 25.4 handlebar (the current one is 26). Maybe a Nitto 135 if I have the money, which I like for its ‘parallel’ design. Shortening the cockpit will be welcome. I might even take the opportunity to add some additional CX-type levers so I can cruise with my hands on the flat part of the handlebars. Of course, I'll have to make a new homemade spacer or buy a Berthoud.
Guinessisgoodforyou
rBotM Winner
Plus.
Guinessisgoodforyou
rBotM Winner
Fin.
