[CR] Gazelle 531 frame on ebay #230447059108

(Example: Component Manufacturers:Campagnolo)

From: "Jon Spangler" <jonswriter@att.net>
Date: Tue, 9 Mar 2010 08:20:06 -0800
To: Dale Brown <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Subject: [CR] Gazelle 531 frame on ebay #230447059108


Listers,

A Gazelle "Champion Mondial road frame (531, 52 seat x 55 TT, c-c) has appeared on ebay and caught my eye:

ebay #230447059108

Seller has not yet provided a serial number, but presuming that this frame qualifies within the timeline or as a KOF, I have a question that has not been answered in the archives:

How do these bikes feel/ride?

I have ridden PX-10s, Raleigh Pro Mark IVs, TREK 660 and (OT) 2000s as well as my Eisentraut. Comparisons to the above would be much appreciated. I like the long, limber feel of continental "stage race" frames and all-day comfort is my goal, but downhill tracking stability at speed is highly desirable and quick-drop-into-the corners handling is fun, too. :-)

Would the similar-length TT indicate handling like my yet-unbuilt Allegro?

I certainly appreciate the Gazelle's racing heritage and successes, and am aware that they came into the Raleigh/TI family but apparently kept high quality standards.

Thanks in advance,

Jon Spangler
Alameda, CA USA
(and too far from Cirque... :-(