I knew Ben Lawee for many years, bought many a bike from him. As far as I know he didn't design any bike geometry. But, he was outstanding at the bike paint, decals, and visual schematics. He selected components according to our market and dealer input, as well as gruppo packages, always with the sharpest eye to pricing. I've been enjoying learning all the nice French info, but before you all start getting maudlin in your burgundy, what am I referring to when I ask the difference between old and new BSA? I am making my list you know. Ted Ernst Palos Verdes Estates, CA
> I'm gonna weigh in with some Ben Lawee-designed Motobecanes:
> 1973 Grand Jubile - Nervex lugs and the full Jubile derailleur set, and it
> was a cushy ride
> Orange "Luis Ocana" Team Champion -- perfect race bike, topped only by
> 1981
> Team Champion, in baby blue Columbus tubing and full Super Record/ Cinelli
> equipment.
>
> I've ridden those, and a bunch of other sought-after CR bikes -- Italvega,
> Raleigh Pro Mk. III and IV, rapid-taper stay Raleigh International, a lot
> of
> Motobecanes like Grand Record, Le Champion and Grand Jubile, and some of
> the
> high-end Univegas at the end of the CR timeline.
>
> BUT, what I haven't seen here is any recognition that Ben Lawee was a
> freekin genius of frame design and bike spec' ing. Even the cheap bikes he
> designed rode well. My current commuter/"fixie" (yes, that dreaded term)
> is
> a Motobecane Super Mirage within CR timeline.
>
> Earle Young,
> Madison, Wisc.