[CR] Coppi photo: injury required riding position?

http://i36.tinypic.com/2d9p4yd.jpg

Because the handlebars were not simply rotated upward, but were first reversed in the stem and then turned upward and finally cloth wrapped afterward, I would assume this set-up was not simply intended for casual leisure town riding.

I imagine this had been required while Coppi was recovering from a serious injury which necessitated a very odd and upright riding position.

Any Coppi fans out there who can accurately date such an injury?

BOB HANSON, ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO, USA