Mark Bulgier asked:
"My questions are, what other Bianchi models used this Campy headset like my Specialissima? Did the classic Folgore have a Campy, or a V-groove, or something else entirely? How about the Campione del Mondo, Paris-Roubaix, others? "
I know that it is my present auction for one of these headsets that has
brought Mark's question to fore:
http://ebay.com/
I have taken apart three headsets to check: one from a 1930's Bianchi roadster and it is like the V groove that you describe. I then checked a 1940 Folgore, it too has the V groove version. I then checked a 1952 Paris Roubaix and it too had the v groove version. This is, in fact, the same headset that I have seen fitted to all the Bianchi bikes that I have ever worked on. This also corresponds to the headset that you can find in the early 50's Bozzi catalog that Chuck sells copies of (See pages 234 and 235). In the Bozzi catalog, all headset with integrated frame cups are euphemistically labeled 'B' type headsets and there are 6 models shown: a Way Asauto brand version with V groove for children's bikes, an eco brand version with V groove (apparently this was the one that was used for Bianchi), an eco brand version with V groove for Gloria bikes, an Eco brand version with cone and cup and 10-sided wrench cut outside (hence not at all similar to Bianchi), a Way Asauto branded V groove version for Maino bikes and lastly, a Maiocchi brand V groove version for Gloria bikes. It should be noted that the two insert frame races are of differing thicknesses, and should you interchange them, your headset will not run smooth.
I have always been under the impression that Bianchi only used one model headset, but after reading Mark's description, I now know this not to be the case. I do not have a Specialissima or a Campione del Mondo to verify. I suppose this means that I must make an addition to the auction description.
Steven Maasland
Moorestown, NJ