Re: [CR]RE: Now Aluminum Cinelli Bar

(Example: Framebuilders)

From: <themaaslands@comcast.net>
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Subject: Re: [CR]RE: Now Aluminum Cinelli Bar
Date: Sat, 20 Sep 2003 23:57:53 +0000

Ambrosio alloy bars do indeed date to the 30's, both for city and racing bikes. Ambrosio alloy stems date from about the same time. I have a Benotto- pantographed Ambrosio Champion stem that I was assured dates from the early 50's. I have also seen photos of a Gloria-pantographed Ambrosio stem that is now in California that I am assured predates WWII.

Vianzone also made alloy stems in Italy in the 40's-50's before Cinelli joined the gang.

The reprint of the Bozzi catalog from the early 50's that Chuck sells also shows that Ambrosio was already selling numerous alloy stems and bars, so it is evident that their widespread use dates from prior to 1950. In the reprint they also depict the adjustable Ambrosio stem that I have up on ebay (item 3627345936). Strangely enough, the Bozzi catalog lists the adjustable stem as being for use both with the superpista and supercorsa handlebars. Given that most bikes of the day came with very short stems (either 7 or 9 cm), these adjustable stems are one of the few ways to get the longer reach preferred by most of us without being period incorrect.

--
Steven Maasland
Moorestown, NJ