[CR]A tale of 3 ... TTTs

(Example: Framebuilders:Bernard Carré)

From: <FujiFish1@aol.com>
Date: Sun, 13 Jan 2008 15:26:39 EST
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Subject: [CR]A tale of 3 ... TTTs

We all know the early TTT Record stem, and that there are some "other" early TTT stems too, but what are they? Here is a link to photos of very late 1960s or 1970s 3T, or 3TTT or TTT stems. http://picasaweb.google.com/Torp84SL/TTTStems

Let us please first view photo #1, giving a drive side view of all three stems, for reference. http://picasaweb.google.com/Torp84SL/TTTStems/photo#5155052119654724930

The stem on the LEFT is marked Gran Prix Special, and has the 7mm Allen wrench fitting atop the quill bolt. (Ignore the drilled clamp and clamp pieces, this was likely done aftermarket). See photos #4 and 5 for close-ups.

The stem on the RIGHT is simply marked TTT, and is the type with standard quill and clamp bolt heads, and the open back side at the elbow. This stem came paired with bars marked "TTT TOURISTE", but the stem has no such markings. See photos #6 and 7 for close-ups.

The last stem, in the middle or back of the group, is a TOURISTE, has 6mm Allen fittings on the quill and clamp bolt heads, and has a notable widening of the top profile from front to rear of the extension. See photos #8 and 9 for close-ups.

So, where do these stems fall in the line-up, and chronology, or when were they available? Is the middle Touriste stem newer, since it has all 6mm Allen fittings? Is the Gran Prix Special stem any different from other Gran Prix stems, or are they all marked Special? Which of these stems was/were available concurrently, and when? Trying to sort out what to use, and subsequently, what to get rid of. Thanks for any help!

Ciao, Mark Agree Southfield MI USA

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