Re: [CR] plastic Unicanitor

(Example: Framebuilders:Brian Baylis)

In-Reply-To: <000d01c740ec$97c5f160$7a7ba8c0@laptophome>
References: <000d01c740ec$97c5f160$7a7ba8c0@laptophome>
From: "Chuck Schmidt" <chuckschmidt@earthlink.net>
Subject: Re: [CR] plastic Unicanitor
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 2007 13:51:17 -0800
To: "classicrendezvous@bikelist.org ((E-mail))" <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>


I found a lot of info in the Ron Kitching 1960 catalog on Unicanitor (referred to in the catalog as both Unica and Unica-Nitor) saddle. The saddle came out in 1959 and the '60 catalog mentions an "improved patented pillar" (steel, exceptionally narrow rail spacing with cam adjustment in top of post for seat angle).

Also listed in the '60 catalog is a Unica-Nitor saddle "for use with the Campagnolo 1044 seat pillar, Ideale Special-Competition saddle clip, Vittoria seat pillar or any standard clip." Available plain or perforated in Black, Brown, Orange or Green, in Road or Track." Track version is described as "narrow section, more rounded."

Quote from catalog, "NITOR nylon-plastic patented top is moulded to the saddle frame..." Which make me wonder, is the word "Nitor" Italian for, or the Italian trade name of, nylon-plastic???

Here's prices from the catalog for comparison: BROOKS -- B.17 "mod. Campagnolo" -- 42/6 Each UNICA -- "Road" model, fits Campagnolo post -- 55/6 Each UNICA -- "Track" model, as above, narrow section -- 55/6 Each UNICA -- "Road" model, fits Unica pillar only -- 74/- Each UNICA -- "Track" model, as above, narrow section -- 74/- Each

None of these Unica saddles had any leather cover or padding, "No breaking-in required - the top provides a firm comfortable seat without that springy feeling that absorbs pedalling (sic) power." It has already been mentioned that most everyone found the saddle, for all but track use, to be slippery, hot and too hard, and it wasn't until the Cinelli versions in 1969/70 that the Unicanitor was offered with a leather cover and also a leather cover over foam padding.

Chuck Schmidt
South Pasadena, CA USA
http://www.velo-retro.com (reprints, t-shirts & timelines)