Given the vintage of the bike in question, I believe the 'caviar' found in the BB is gadget that Herse 'invented' for improved economy? You know the one that Rebour did all the drawings of! Herse wrote that it worked on a principle similar to the 'stuff' you put in your gas tank for improved fuel economy? It also somehow affected the ionic charge which then added to increased pedal efficiency?
Imagine being able to ride 1000 miles per gallon of water instead of only 300!
The French are so ingenious! I suppose that Jan is already preparing the next Bicycle Quarterly all about this fantastic discovery.
Steven Maasland
Moorestown, NJ
USA