Yes, the Militar Ordinance-05 (first year issued is 1905 and made until 1988 when the MO-93 replaced it until 2000) is no lightweight at 52 lbs, but historic and offering an immense pleasure factor. They are basically the same (05-to-88 except during WWII, a drum brake was added to the rear Torpedo hub to assist the coaster brake). Interchangeability was important as it is with all military hardware.
I purchased my 1979 in 2003 from the Armee Liq Shoppe in Thun Switzerland which is operated by the Army, not a private surplus vendor. I visited their facilities four times before finally they rolled out fourteen fahrradn (bicycles) just at closing. I had my pick after paying 150CHF, or $120 USD. Most were from the forties and in varying conditions. My 79 seemed the sounded, so I chose it despite the older dates seeming more interesting. After all, they are virtually identical. The next morning I returned to the Armee Liq Shoppe to buy a grosse leder tasche (large leather frame mounted courier box) and was astounded to see the other thirteen fahrradn sold. Apparently, volume buyers hoard them up to resell. I felt very lucky to have the novelty of having bought my example direct from the Swiss Government. The Swiss tax payer pays about $150 for boot sized peddles. The A.L.S. sells them for the equivalent of $9. I knew that this would be my only opportunity to stock up on spares, so I did. I'm sure glad I have because on the rare occasion that I do see some of them up for auction, the price has been inflated many fold. I have a Gios SR from the late seventies and a Colnago Super from 73. These bikes deserve the nicest weather before they hit the road. Die Schweitzer Miltar Fahrrad takes me there regardless of weather conditions and at fifty-two pounds, it keeps my muscles from going south during the winter months. This MO-05 is also my touring ride. I have many accessories from the A.L.S. that were intended for munitions, but also serve well for peace time needs like my camping gear. This Swiss mega bicycle is now serving as an ambassador from CH. It's a wonderful conversation piece from a country that has never stepped on other nations to satisfy it's "national interest".
Carl Kamenzind Weat Seattle WA U.S.A.
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