[CR] Simplex "Retro-friction" bar-end shifters?

(Example: Production Builders:Cinelli)

From: <Stronglight49@aol.com>
Date: Sat, 11 Oct 2008 03:22:07 EDT
Subject: [CR] Simplex "Retro-friction" bar-end shifters?
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org


Am I missing something?

I've recently seen a couple of different listings on eBay for what was described as Retro-Friction bar-end shifters. But, to me they appear to be the very basic simple friction control levers made by Simplex during the 1960s & 70s, complete with the same basic black rubber lever covers over the same standard levers.

Is there some unique mechanism concealed within SOME of these factory levers which I just had never encountered?

I have a complete new-old-stock set with all the original hardware, cables, guides and fittings... but mine are definitely just very basic friction, similar to the Campagnolo products of the 1950s through 70s.

Has anyone encountered a set with the retro-friction feature yet looking just like the standard friction bar-end controls? I would love to know.

I'm suddenly feeling peculiarly out of touch with what I "thought" I knew about old Simplex now...

BOB HANSON, ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO, USA

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