Re: [CR]Viking Severn Valley

(Example: Racing:Wayne Stetina)

From: <Hughethornton@aol.com>
Date: Fri, 13 Oct 2006 18:16:44 EDT
Subject: Re: [CR]Viking Severn Valley
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org


Joe,

Thanks for that input and for the history page you sent a link for. I didn't know they made Severn Valleys that early (anybody know the reason for the name?) but it did continue as the top production model until the 60s.

I am fairly sure mine has original paint and it has a seat tube decal saying 5 Times First Tour of Britain. The head badge is also the type shown in the history as "The bicycle badge that was used from 1960 onwards" .So it might actually be quite a late frame, if the information is correct and if the badge is original (it looks to be held on with OE type rivets). The 1960 catalog on the Classic Rendezvous site says that Campagnolo dropouts were an option, so they might be original. That catalog doesn't say anything about chrome ends though.

Does anybody know when Nervex Pro lugs were introduced? That may be another indicator of date.

My guess now is that this frame is from the early 60s, although I was told by the vendor that he was told that it was about 1954. Perhaps the serial number would be the best guide, if anybody has a bike of known date with a similar number (151932)

Hugh Thornton Cheshire, England

In a message dated 13/10/2006 22:30:38 GMT Standard Time, joeking@fastmail.fm writes:

Hugh, Viking were making Severn Valley's in 1950 for certain. I have an original catalogue from that year with it listed. The 50 model was 72 parallel with 10.5" bracket height, Fork rake 2.25". Interestingly the brazed on lamp bracket was an extra it actually says in the catalogue (Not fitted unless specified). I always thought that the second two digits in the number where the year. This would make yours 1951 if this statement is proved correct. You need a real expert for the definitive answer. The Campag ends could have been put on later as was the fashion. I had loads of frames converted to modern ends in the mid 60's. Best wishes Joe. Croeso Cymru Joe King Nr. Maenaddwyn Ynys Mon Wales