If there is no evidence it has been ridden, I don't see any problem with calling it NOS. Lots of people buy parts they are told are NOS, then later sell them as NOS without using them. This doesn't seem any different. If visual inspection doesn't contradict the original owner's claims, then I think you are entitled to rely on them. A lot of eBay sellers call stuff NOS with a lot less justification than this.
Regards,
Jerry Moos
Houston, TX
I have an early 70's Frejus I am thinking about putting on e-bay. 531 DB, full Campagnolo group including brakes, original everything including sew-ups, cables and HB tape. To the best of my knowledge it has never touched pavement. I bought it from a charming Frenchman who had bought it for his American wife who refused to even try to ride it. He told me he hung it in his garage and there it set for 20 years until I bought it from him. I believe he was telling me the truth, he didn't really have any reason to lie, but I have no real proof (provenance?). I have had the bike about 10 years now and I have not ridden it (one sew-up won't hold air). So my question is, is this New Old Stock or Never Been Ridden or both or neither?
Jerry Corcoran
Canby, OR