Having spent the weekend "bonding" with my new Peugeot PX-10E, a question for you Peugeotistes...
Did the Peugeot Team during the glory years of the 1960s-70s actually ride "stock" PX-10s? The photos I've seen sure indicate they did. Or were they custom made by some famous frame builder? As one who puts far greater stock in excellence achieved en masse, I am hoping the answer is the former.
Two days on my PX-10 and I must defer to all of you who swear by tubular tyres... just a wonderful ride. And I am using the sort of cheap ones you sneer at: Clements bought 3 for $50 at YellowJersey.com When I get my first flat, the bloom will be soon gone, but these are sweet!
And compared to my Raleigh Comp GS, the PX-10 is lighter and faster but very comfortable. Amazing pick up. The Raleigh has the edge for handling (74 vs 72 frame angles make beaucoup difference) and sheer joy to ride. A better hill climber too. Simplex vs. Campagnolo Gran Sport: no contest here, the Simplex shifts much easier, silent and much smoother. I had forgotten how 'orrible Mafac Racer brakes really are however.. eeeccch. But I wouldn't change them for the world... what would a French bike be without squeeling brakes? Sounds like a Caravelle landing with full reverse thrust.
So like two proper classics, one is not better than the other, just different. Hence the absolute necessity to have an apartment crammed with all sorts of different bikes. As long as the ratio is 9:1 Britsh vs. French. Maybe there's room for one Italian....
Peter Kohler
Washington DC USA