"Thomas R. Adams, Jr." wrote:
Here's something I've never seen before, a Rene Herse Tandem. Fenders, lights, what looks like a Stonglight 49d drivetrain, she's a beaut.
I'm going to offer some responses:
Tom: This is something I'd actually be interested in, although it's a bit too small for me, but does anyone have experience with these? The tires are allegedly 26 inches, but don't quite look like modern mountain skins. What size would these be? Are replacements available? It looks like 36 spokes, which might be okay in the smaller wheel size.
Harvey: I'm sure that Sheldon Brown can get tires if they're odd
Tom: Would it be possible to refit a conventional tandem drivetrain to get a triple crank? Or could the original set be reconfigured?
Harvey: Could be done, whether it should be is another question. Relatively easy on a crossover tandem like this; if worse comes to worst could use a PHIL BB to get the extra length, but I suspect some MTN stuff could be fitted. It seems to want standard TA cogs.
Tom: How do these frames ride? Suitable for the gravitationally challenged?
Harvey: I would personally consider this a collection and special days ride, and not try to upgrade it. Modern tandems tend to be much more stoker-friendly, and to perform better for serious riding. I once rebuilt a full chrome Herse double-diamond tandem, with NO lateral bracing. That one had Herse cranks and cantis, not Stronglight/Mafac, suggesting that this may be much younger than that one, or a less expensive version; ask Peter Naiman about that.
harvey sachs mcLean va
Anyone know the seller?
Tom Adams, Shrewsbury NJ