Hello All,
Thought I'd add afew words regarding Jays Thanet. I learned of the Thanet by way of an article on bicycle collecting which appeared in an early 80s issue of Bicycling! The article featured a Thanet and I think a Bates. Years later, I met Art Stump at the Great Western Bike Rally and the subject of fine bicycles and his "off topic" immortal Alfa Romeo 2.9 exploits were discussed. He told me of his Thanet and the Gillot that Ron Cooper built for him. I made arrangements to purchase the Thanet and took delivery the following day. According to my notes, While in England Art ordered two frames from builder George Clair (sp). Art noticed an unsual frame hanging in the shop, it was the Thanet. Art asked George about the frame and whether it was for sale. George responded by asking what the hell do you want that piece of junk for? Art had seen the Thanet earlier at the Science Museum in London (?) and became familiar with its uniqueness. Art told me he went back to the shop many years later and George wanted desparately to buy the frame back! Back to more of my notes that I took when I purchased the Thanet from Art... Hurlow did not like Cassell (Les Cassell was the man behind Thanet cycles), they got into a competition. Apparently Hurlow thought Cassell did not have the correct size frames built for his clients. Perhaps, one day I'll own another Thanet. I'm disappointed that I wasnt the one to restore it; I kinda feel that I let Art down on that regard. But I'm glad that Jay stepped up and did it right. As a consolation, I did get that Gillot from Art and I'm keeping it forever.
Regards, Dave Martinez Fremont Ca US of A in the planning stages for l' eroica
Jay Van De Velde <jaysportif@yahoo.com> wrote:
I've decided it is time to move this Thanet Silverlight on to its next caretaker. This was once Art Stump's bike and it came to me by way of Dave Martinez several years ago. The modest reserve just about covers my restoration costs, so here's a chance to score one rare bike.
item # 280095598628
Jay Van De Velde
Seal Beach,CA