Wayne, It is the Gonfleur ....compressed air/CO2 dispenser for flats.
Matt "cable snake' Gorski Belmont Shore, CA
What is strapped to the lower part of the down tube, just above the BB, on Bobet's frame?
Wayne Bingham Lovettsville VA
Pic of the Day 16 Feb 05 Tour of Lombardy 1951
Very large image today...
http://www.wooljersey.com/
...or smaller version
http://www.wooljersey.com/
Louison Bobet and Fausto Coppi in action during the 1951 Tour of Lombardy. Bobet goes on to win, while Coppi will finish third behind Minardi. From "But et Club/Le Miroir des Sports" No.320, 22 October 1951.
Is Bobet using a Campagnolo rear derailleur with Simplex shift lever? Note also that Bobet's rear qr lever is mounted on the drive side (right-handed), while Coppi's is mounted left-handed.
Aldo Ross