So what do you call an Austrian frame with black Niponese parts?
VeinerSushi?
No, an Austro Daimler Vent Noir.
Jeff Pyzyk Milwaukee, WI
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ My impression has always been that the Vent Noir ("black wind, I think) was designed as gimmick, but is way underrated. Mine is first generation, which has a sort of textured matte black paint - with gold luglining, and some gold striping, on a 72/72? 531 DB frame & fork set. The second (last) gen. had a lovely smoky dark chrome finish. Mine is all first gen (?) black DuraAce, with a dark-anodized GB stem and GB map of England engraved bars.
I find mine to be a really nice day rider, and took it to L'Eroica. I did change to Phil hub wheels because I wanted to use fat 700c tires instead of the stock 27", and I did sub a STronglight 99 "clone" (SR) to get a decent low gear, but it was otherwise stock, and did very well on all the surfaces. It's happily reverted to stock form now.
I'll admit that I chose to take it because it was the one bike I was willing to sacrifice (at least the frame) if I found something irresistable in Italy..., but I'm delighted that I didn't and brought it home for more rides.
I got mine from the local club newsletter "for sale" list years ago, and recomend them highly if the price is right.
harvey sachs
mcLean va