[CR]Bike Cult dropout

(Example: Framebuilders:Cecil Behringer)

Date: Mon, 16 Jun 2003 00:40:09 -0400
From: "Bike Works NYC" <bikeworks@bikecult.com>
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Subject: [CR]Bike Cult dropout

Thanks for commenting on my dropouts archive, and thanks to Matthew Grimm and Jamie Swan for sending their fine examples to post...

About the potential weakness of fender-eyelet-tapped fork tip, I think it's pretty clever, and it's done on the thickest tips around. I woory more for CPSC-approved 4mm tips with axle washer slots that prevent wheel dropout. It seems as safe as the Confente cutouts on same page.

About fixed-gear chain tensioners, as on the Dick Power track bike... many pre-WW2 machines had tensioners with thinner 4mm ends than post-WW2 5mm ends. That type of tensioner is still available, though quality is lowwer. IMO chain tensioners are not needed. Most users have too-tight chain tension. They are BMX jewelry, and Hans Rey's 20" GT team trial that Taliah painted didn't have any.

About the decorative Gitane vert dropout... that frame is still around, but not at hand to be examined for possible Huret identification.

David Perry
Bike Cult HQ, NYC