Herse indeed is known for the randonneur/touring type of bike. But Herse did have some significant connections to racing:
Lily Herse was a many time French national cycle champion, and she earned those wins on Herse frames.
In the early 70's, a womens racing team was sponsored by Rene Herse - and victories on Herse Bicycles included the 1974 World Championships in Montreal!
A famous male racer (Lousion Bobet) also is known to have used Herse race frames as well.
So there you have it - if you consider womens racing as being significant (and why shouldn't we?) then Herse bikes saw top podium finishes in both nationals and worlds competitions.
Not bad, I say, considering that race bikes were not their "specialty". Does that make the bike on ebay from the March family any more or less valuable? I have not idea. But the seller is reputable, and Herse race frames are typically beautifully made. From my biased viewpoint, I can certainly think of many less worthy ways of spending $3,600.
Mike Kone
President
Rene Herse Bicycles Inc.
> Jerry Moos wote:"He implies the brakes are mounted to brazeon studs, but it
\r?\n> doesn't look like it to me in the photos."
\r?\n>
\r?\n> Notwithstanding any arguments as to the value of this bike, the brakes are
\r?\n> definitely mounted to brazed on studs. Check 'em out, here:
\r?\n> http://www.reneherse.com/
\r?\n> and here: http://www.reneherse.com/
\r?\n>
\r?\n> DB
\r?\n> Ak
\r?\n> NZ
\r?\n>
\r?\n> http://www.retroride.blogspot.com
\r?\n>
\r?\n>
\r?\n>
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