... and it's pretty obvious that I'm not a morning person. There I was, cycling to work through Regent's Park, minding my own business, when another cyclist pulled up next to me and called out, 'Good morning!'
Me, a little startled, called (in not the friendliest tone, admittedly) over the shoulder, 'Can I help you?'
The cyclist pulled up again and said, 'I'm sorry, but I forgot your name.'
Huh? I hit the brakes to find out who's chasing me in order to get his memory refreshed, then replied, 'Stella.'
'Ah, yes, Stella. Of course. This is Biscuit.'
Looking a tad uncomfortable there lol
And with that I was awake. Of course I know Biscuit, I even conversed with its owner quite a few times, he's a regular visitor of this blog and a proud Viscount--the above mentioned green Biscuit. All morning grumpiness was replaced by sheer excitement; what a thrill to meet another rider and Viscount family member. The strange thing, though, is that he's not even from London. See, London's a big city, randomly running into someone like this is quite an achievement, but running into someone you've only met online so far and that on your way to work is rather astonishing. This is the second time it happened to me; last time was a friend--Viscount owner, of course--from Staffordshire, who've I'd just met in person at the Death Fork Rally 2 and who's son's started uni here in London. So, yes, chances he'll come to London are great, but what are the odds he happens to drive past me on my way to work?
Well, whatever the reason and weird constellation of stars, I always love those random run-ins. The one this morning made my day, and I told everyone at work about it (and earned quite a few head shakes). Why is it that nobody gets my Viscount fever? As many bikes I ride during the day, Viscounts or Lamberts always feel like 'home' to me.
Next time I'll hopefully give Biscuit a whirl. The bike has been done perfectly. Sorry for the bad light, but I didn't have too much time to find a better spot.
It called and I came to welcome yet another Viscount into my loving arms. This time it's a beautiful Viscount Aerospace Gran Prix, which is essentially the same bike as my Lambert G.P. Deluxe--just under a different branding and in white/blue. I found this bike on eBay--no, wrong, one of my Viscount family found it and pointed it out, all I did was go and make sure it goes to a good home. It arrived at the shop on Friday, but I couldn't touch it until today, so you can imagine that I was all eager to get to work.
The story behind this bike is that an Australian couple moved into a house (here in UK), after the old man, who lived there beforehand, had passed away; and the bike was left in the shed. They didn't think anything of it and filled the shed up with their own belongings until they now, 25 years later, moved out and de-cluttered the shed. The bike emerged again and they wanted to throw it away. Their window cleaner thought it would be a shame, took it, put it on eBay and the rest is history. I put the bike together (it was partly dismantled), pumped up the tyres and took it for a really quick spin around the block. Man, it felt familiar immediately. Sometimes I think you could sit me on a bike and let me ride it blind folded, and I'd recognise a Viscount or Lambert. Smooth, even after 25 years of not being ridden! Okay, the headset's a little stiffer than it should be, and the cables are seized up, but that's all the bike needs doing, really. I could even move the seat post up without any problems. The powder coating is in very good nick, almost immaculate, and the blue bits are beautifully hand-painted. It came with a thermos flask, which had my colleagues in stitches.
But enough of the talking, here are the pictures. Be prepared to be amazed!
With mark 3 death fork
Just a pretty sight
An example of Viscount using up Lambert parts
Titlist front mech in great condition
Titlist RD with a bit of rust
Curious little sticker
I hope I can rescue this rusty bottle holder and make it shine again. Perfect transfer underneath
Stunning paint job (and fillet brazing)
Viscount brakes
Viscount hubs complete with QR
Birmalux seat post!
Wrights saddle in need of some nutrition
Brake lever playing dress-up
Couldn't resist to put that bike in the window till Tuesday
I've said it for some time now: I'm determined to re-create the 1973's magazine cover picture of that woman sort of sitting on a Viscount. So today, when I went to see my friend Ben, I suddenly decided he could take a picture of me, since I was wearing boots and--what a surprise--riding my red flash.
Please feel free to howl with laughter at my first (of many) attempt:
I admit that I look somewhat hideous in the picture, purely because I appear more like a whale stuck in a frame than the elegant and gracious girl I aimed to achieve. Guess it's partly because that frame in the original advert is much larger. The background isn't ideal either. Gave me the giggles when I uploaded it and I'm always happy to share so you can have one, too.
Not too long ago, a reader sent me an e-mail, eager to share a picture of his Viscount Sebring commuter, which found its way to him by law of fate. As every Viscount owner I know, he's properly smitten by those bicycles and I asked him to tell me the story of the bike and him 'getting together'. That e-mail inspired me to post a call for submissions for pictures and, if possible, a write-up about people's love affair with their Viscounts or Lamberts and I'll put them on this blog. Let's spread the word; there's really nothing like a ride on those bikes.
Here's John's story:
A rather wonderful pub bike
My local Craigslist bicycle listing showed this Viscount, resplendent in it's 'bright' blue paint pictured in a grassy back yard in somewhat blurry mobile phone pics. The owner was keen to point out it 'Was from the midwest and still had it's stickers to prove it!' I considered his asking price-$60 and thought to myself: I've got one Aerospace G.B. in pieces and one Aerospace Pro frame & fork in my size waiting to become a 'special' project in the near future, what am I going to do with another Viscount/old 10-speed anyways? I emailed the seller and asked for his best availability to see the bike but never followed through on setting a date and time, so I let it 'ride', pardon the pun. About two months passed and I saw the Sebring listed again but thought to myself, 'What am I going to do with another...' you get the point. A week or more went by and something told me to at least take a look at the bike, so I arranged to visit the seller who was about a half hour away from home. I loved the look of the bike and it's blue frame, so it was love at first sight. The seller rambled on about his 'junk picking' of bikes that he was repairing and selling, although 10-speed road bikes weren't really his thing. He pointed out that the bars and stem were swapped out as the originals were missing some pieces, although he had them. Besides one shift cable, and the seat, the rest of bike was original so I struck a deal for $40 and the bike came home with me, no test ride needed. Upon getting it home, I filled the tyres with air and took it for a spin...ah, the Viscount 'Affect' was upon me! It was immediately apparent why I love old road bikes-svelt racers or 'heavy' tourers, they just have a way of 'gliding' along without much upset-so refined! I spent time cleaning off the old grease, swapping out the fossilized brake pads for new, exchanging the seat, and converting the drop bars to flat with lovely oldish DiaCompe brake levers and moto-grips.
What's in the works for the Sebring 'Pub Bike'? I set of 'vintage' Bluemel fenders (proper UK made!). A longer, one-piece alloy seatpost. Alloy rims laced to the original Shimano hubs. New tyres (as you spell the word). A Pletscher rear rack. Maybe one day new transfers over a glossy new coat of paint but we'll see... ;)
Today, I went to pick up the Indy 500 frame, giddy up to the gills; I mean I really couldn't wait to gather all the parts and get started on the build. When I took a first look at the frame I was delighted; the steel hadn't darkened too much in the phosphoring process, and the welds had come out really beautiful with the cold colour. In short: the result were far better than I'd had expected.
As usual, I gave the frame a quick once over, starting at the bottom bracket, and what a shock it was to discover that it had quite an impressive crack! Something that was overlooked. It should have been picked up right after the sand blasting, but somehow wasn't (mistakes can happen, we're all human). A shame nevertheless, particularly as we all agreed that the frame looks fabulous in its naked form.
As this frame is not particularly valuable (it's lugged, not fillet brazed, nor is it Aerospace tubing), I've decided to write it off, rather than getting it repaired. I'll keep it for when I open my own shop (I'm still dreaming about it, yes) to build it up and use it as decorative window display; it's a Viscount, after all, and therefore deserves a special place.
Rather prominent crack
Good thing I got it stripped!
Stunning!
Beautiful gold-framed lugs
Anyway, this means I'm looking for another frame (and forks) for my 'bare steel' project. Of course it has to be a Viscount! No question about that. It also means I'll need some time and patience as Viscounts don't crop up too often--if so, they're totally overpriced. Maybe this means I should get a wiggle on with the Lambert. If only I could find a rear Lambert hub!
I'm talking about the bike build. Especially since I've started experimenting with translating my visions into reality. The process of phantasising about a bicycle, made to your own taste and needs is an intoxicating one; and the pride you feel when everything comes together and people stop you in the street to admire your work ...
Well, today I've brought the Indy500 frame to the powder coaters. I'm firmly sticking to my idea of stripping it and leaving it naked. Unfortunately, it's possibly not going to be as silver as I'd like to; due to the phosphating (to protect the steel from rusting), which darkens the metal. Still, the weldings will be clearly visible and that's the look I'm after: clean and bare frame and forks. This bike will be a commuter, so it'll have mudguards (I'm looking for a rear one in red) and most likely raiser handlebars (with red grips), taken from this bike:
Of course I'll build my own wheels in 27 1 1/4, and I'll keep it in Viscount style.
Speaking of which: I spotted one (I assume Sport or Sprint) in Dalston, and had to take a picture. Not sure to whom it belongs, but I think it may be Billy's, the guy who works at Cafe Oto, as I faintly remember him saying that his old Viscount went to bicycle heaven and he'd got a new one. But I may be wrong here. Nevertheless, it's always a pleasure to see this wonderful make carrying people around London (and anywhere else).
And something else: my beloved Viscount Sprint is finally getting its last honour; it'll go to the hands of my friend Ben from BikeBox, who will make it look pretty to entice customers to pop by his container. So I'm saying farewell to one of my most favourite rides, but with a smile on my face as I'll be able to see it every time when I visit Ben at work.
For the past few months I've been really busy, with work taking over my life, leaving hardly any time to work on any of my bikes. A clean was just about what I'd managed and I've decided there's no way I can carry on like this, neglecting my planned projects.
Therefore, I'm changing some work arrangements and with it, will be able to free up some time to finally convert my living room into a workshop again (or use a proper one!).
Anyhow, since winter's sneaking up on us, I thought it's possibly easier to commute on a SS/fixie. Yes, yes, throw nuts and bolts at me, but I always said I'd like to convert one of my Viscounts to a fixed gear for my own development as a mechanic.
The Indy has always been my favourite bike to do this and that's what I'm going to start with next week. Unfortunately, I can't make up my mind regarding colour. Originally, I'd envisioned to not do anything to the frame, keep it as rusty as it is so it could be locked outside without attracting thieves, but I can't bring myself to do this. It's a Viscount, after all, and they deserve love and respect. You probably remember that I'd also considered to get the frame sand blasted, primed, and lacquered, showing it naked, welding and all. Could work, don't you think? Or, since I'm going to use the mudguards that came with the Victor (red and silver) I may even play with those colours a bit. Seriously, I have no idea yet. All I know is that it'll be an upright riding position and will have a flip flop hub, in case I struggle to go fixed.
Whatever the outcome, I'm pretty sure it'll look awesome.
And I'll keep you updated, of course.
Maybe you saw me today, but more likely not; I was out and about on my red flash. Nothing fancy this time, just a few lapse in Regent's Park's outer circle. Whenever I need to clear my head, or just switch off, I will take out one of my bikes and just go for a ride. Any excuse to show off the bikes, right?
My current work horses.
Nevertheless, I've taken leave this week and did a bit of (long overdue) cleaning jobs on the red flash and the Viscountess. My plan to build up either the Lambert or Indy 500 didn't come to fruition as I desperately needed to relax instead of putting myself under even more strains. Don't get me wrong, I love working on my bikes and it always calms me down, but I wanted to make the most of the wonderful weather, feel the warmth of the sun on my skin, the wind in my hair, and the rhythmic movements of my legs when pedalling.
On Wednesday, I went along the towpath to the Limehouse, a route I always enjoy, without failure, and I hardly met another soul--perfect for just diving into your own little world, mulling things over, while enjoying the landscape. Experiencing it on a trusted Viscount was, of course, the best of all. I know I'm repeating myself, but those bikes are just so comfortable to ride, and I feel like we're basically becoming one. In addition to this, I see people doing a double take whenever I show up with one of my bikes, even the rather battered looking blue Sport gets some admiring looks. I can't wait to get this done up next year to reveal it's real beauty.
So with the now repaired and shiny again red flash, I went to Camden and once I got into the zone, I just let go of anything that bothered me; instead I kept a steady pace and enjoyed the effect it had on me. For the entire two hours I could feel the smile stretching over my face ... wonderful! Whenever I looked down and saw the wheels turning, the smile grew wider: nothing beats a mirror polished hub in the sun, the sound of tyres on the road, the chain running smoothly over the cogs--the whole bike is a dream to ride.
Yep, still going strong! The bike!
I arrived home feeling a lot better and happier. If you asked me, riding one of those bikes should be available on prescription. ;-)
Yep, I did it again. It seems I'm prone to yearly self-inflicted crashes. Last year it was on my Viscount Sprint, cycling straight into a bollard and fracturing my hand; on a Friday mid August this year my hand-eye coordination failed and, instead of gripping my handlebar, my fingers grasped into the void and off I came. No fractures, just a big bump on the side of my head and a shock. Got lucky, I'd say.
See, who needs cars or other road users? I'm perfectly fine to injure myself without anyone else.
Anyway, after a day's recovery on the sofa, and lending the red flash, the bike that miraculously survived the incident, to a friend, who then had an accident on a motorcycle the Sunday after mine, wasn't to be seen for a whole month. I cannot stress enough how much I missed that bike. Seriously, if one of my Viscounts isn't where it belongs--in reach and safe--I get agitated. A lot! Particularly this one means a lot to me as it's a frame Steve prepared for me, and is my very first self-built bike, including the wheels. Not to mention the costs. And its parts are basically nicked from Shawn, who was my first Viscount and the beginning of a beautiful love.
Okay, I'm aware that I'm sounding a bit a lot like a crazy person. If you've been visiting regularly and wondered if I'd lost interest in Viscounts because I haven't posted in a two months or so: let me tell you, there's nothing that could put me off those bikes. Absolutely nothing! I rode the blue one and the Viscountess to work and, every time I see another one on the roads, I'll chase that owner up. Or, if an unsuspecting customer walks with one into the shop ... well, take a blind guess. Something which happened just this week. I swear the poor guy didn't know what hit him when I marched out of the workshop, eyes literally popping out of my head with excitement while I bombarded him with facts about his ride. Afterwards he quietly said, 'I'm feeling unworthy of this bike, maybe it's better you have it.'
'Yes,' I wanted to say, 'give it to me!' On the other hand, I thought this would be immensely rude, even though he'd been given the Aerospace through freecycle. Of course it would have been gone to a good home, no arguing that. Ah well. I hope after the information I've fed him, he'll take good care of his newly obtained choice of transport.
Speaking of looking after your bike: my red flash came back to me in a bit of state; for as long as I'd had it, I'd never left it exposed to the elements. My poor boy had been sitting in a garden since August and I can't say I'm too happy about it. In addition to that, he was suffering with a bent front caliper and brake hanger, and an out-of-whack rear wheel.
That not how a brake hanger should look like
Spot the left caliper
No idea what happened, but it looks like he's been squashed with/into something. I doubt it was because of the fall, as the caliper doesn't show any scratches/damage, as you can see in the picture above. There are, however, two deep scratches at the down tube, just behind the shifters (not caused by them!). As you can imagine, I wasn't too amused.
But I did what I had to do: fix it. Went to Micycle to use their workshop and hammer/bend the brake hanger back to almost normal, bend the caliper, true the wheel, give it a good once-over and clean before taking it for a spin to Dalston in order to meet my friend Ben from Bikeboxto say hi.
I'm all over in love again!
Those two were rather sweet, taking photos of my bike.
On my way home I stopped at Clissold Park to show off my shiny bike and, while taking pictures, two boys (you can see them walking away in the second picture) were admiring my red flash, asking if I'm selling it. No, sorry, mate, not gonna happen.
I'm keeping an eye on eBay to see what's happening in the Viscount & Lambert world and, every so often, I see listings with the addition 'quite the following', or 'huge fan base', which makes me snigger. Our 'club' of Viscount owners and enthusiasts currently has 38 members--okay a few have admitted to just lurk and not signing up (yes, Andy, I'm talking about you, mate; join up already to share your stories!) but even if you add, say ten more people, then we're still a small bunch of Viscount nerds with an appreciation of those great bicycles. I think it's because although cycling is becoming more popular now, it's mainly amongst cyclists from late teens to mid thirties; all of whom are too young to remember Lamberts or Viscounts which were only produced between 1971 and 1983. As a result people don't recognise the name and rather go for a Peugeot or Raleigh or anything else their mates ride, or they've seen on the roads. I'm a bit of an exception as I'm not English or American, and the company didn't particularly market to Germany, so when I stumbled over Shawn last year it was pure fate. Not that I'd remember any popular German bike names, I hasten to add, despite my life-long wish of owning a racer, I never paid attention.
I could imagine that those looking for a second hand bike, finding Viscounts or Lamberts, do some research, read about the death fork, which seems off-putting enough, but if that doesn't do the trick then it's probably that unique bottom bracket that will make potential buyers pass on the bikes.
Yes, those bikes will only speak to a certain kind of person:
Up for a real challenge
Determined
Willing to learn and that fast
Patient
Perfectionist
Proud to stand out
If you're the type of person who listens to a bike shop telling you to scrap the old bike you've just bought for 125 (or more) pounds, because they haven't got a clue how to deal with that bottom bracket, or think that the time and effort of freeing the seized seat post is a waste, then you're better off to buy something more standard. If you combine more or less all the six points made above, you're a good candidate to become the next Viscount lover.
People always ask me what's so special about them and the only thing I can offer is to hand them one of my bikes and let them ride it. But, to be honest, a short spin around the block won't give you an insight; you'd need to ride it for at least 30 minutes to an hour to really appreciate the smoothness of the bb, the lightness of the frame, the way the bike feels. To me, it's magic.
The most recent member to join our forum started out with a Sprint, and has recently picked up a G.P, which was one of the high-end bikes Viscount made, and he said the same: you can't really explain what's special about riding Viscounts or Lamberts; you need to ride them and will, inevitably, fall in love.
The Viscountess and me, that is. I've taken her on another ride along the River Lea and Regent's Canal again. To be honest, I simply can't help it. There's nothing--really nothing--that compares riding a bike you put together yourself; you know exactly what the bike can withstand and, trust me, I'm not mollycoddling any of my bikes. They're there to be ridden, full stop. So my bikes have to go over bumps and down kerbs--okay, the latter with a bit more care on those single-walled alloy rims--let alone the many potholes you encounter in London.
My pink girl has done me proud so far. And not only that: she's flying! After a day's break from her, I actually was glad to have her under my arse as she's a rather comfortable ride--as all Viscounts are: super tight rear triangle, but relaxed at the front. Perhaps one reason I love them so much. I don't enjoy having my head lower than my backside, but then I'm not road racing; I quite like to look left and right, take in the landscape I'm riding through. Deep inside me lurks a tourer, I'm sure of it. And I will start doing that at some point. Either on my own or with someone else. I can see myself easily covering quite a few miles, merrily pedalling away in the sunshine, or even in the winter if it's like last year.
This peddler's perspective
Possibly sleeping in youth hostels, occasionally in B&Bs, which makes for a lighter load. Yep, I think I'd like that a lot. Exploring the UK via bike? How exciting is that?
Anyway, for the time being, I'll have to make do with my day trips and they're rather nice, too, but see for yourself:
You wouldn't think it's in the middle of London, would you?
At least that's what I think. No, I'm talking about my several (non-existing) boyfriends, or people in general--noo, I'm talking about my bikes. Yes, I've possibly lost the plot now, but I always talk to my bikes and I could have sworn to have seen long faces on my red flash and the blue Sport. The reason being is the Viscountess, for I've given her all my attention. Poor little ones were patiently waiting to be freed and taken for a ride. So today, I thought it's time for the red flash to see some sunlight. One of my favourite routes is along the river Lea, all the way up to the Limehouse, then back on the other side. It's amazing what you find when you're out cycling and this time I stumbled over a new 'outdoor' bike workshop. In fact I almost whizzed past it as it's tucked away next to a little cafe, fenced off. I stopped--mainly because I spotted a loo, which I urgently needed--and then saw the bikes. They've told me they've been there for five weeks, doing repairs as well as selling second-hand bikes. Nice bunch of guys. Of course they had to admire my Viscount and I showed it off with lots of pride, just before grabbing a random person to take a picture of us.
I've made some new friends
If you got a puncture or need other repairs, no problem
Soon after, I went ahead with my ride; the sun was shining and it was still early afternoon, which meant I had more or less a free way. It's far too crowded when it's getting later, as commuters will race (!) along the towpath. Once I arrived at the Limehouse I had to nip into a shop for some snack and drink; the towpath was rather dusty and so was the bike. But it's always a nice picturesque spot to sit down and relax for a moment or two before heading back. Here are some more impressions, including the dust-covered Viscount Aerospace Sport.
Hello, hello. My apologies for being quiet recently; the reason being was my being extremely ... err busy challenged with the 'secret mission' bike I was building for the rally. And, to be honest, there was a point when I thought I would need to give up and take the red flash. Luckily, I got the bike ready, literally last minute, even though it missed the final touches (fine tuning). Feel free to admire the newest addition of my fleet here.
A teaser: picture courtesy of John
Anyway, with the bike ready for take off, I went to sleep one last time before the big event.
I woke filled with excitement: finally, the day of the Death Fork Rally 2 had arrived. I'd only waited a year for that day to come. Okay, I have to say that getting up at 5am didn't really sound enticing, but the anticipation of meeting the guys I've been chatting and e-mailing with over the last twelve months, had me leaping out of bed and into the shower. And it wasn't long until I was heading to Euston station, tired yet wide awake, happiness flooding through me; I had great expectations, but somehow knew that they'd be met.
My cheery mood was only dampened by the mere fact that the bolts which hold the outer chain ring and the crank arm together, took on a life of their own by coming loose every few miles; that meant I had to stop every now and again and re-tighten them--not ideal if you have a train to catch. Good thing I packed a set of spanners and a flat-head screw driver, wasn't it?
I arrived at the camp site at about ten-ish, I think. Could have been there much earlier, but true to my sense of direction--or better lack thereof--I was anxiously riding back and forth the road the camp was on, still missing it. I could, of course, just blame the rain, but nobody would believe me anyway. Yeah, yeah, joke's on me. :-)
Everyone was already busy pouring (pun not intended) over the Viscounts and Lamberts which had been lined up against a fence, ready to go on a group ride. And, boy, what a sight! Some had brought two or even three bikes, and Jem, who kindly organised everything, had brought his Trusty folder in mint condition; it became our I'll-quickly-cycle-over-to-the-other-side-of-the-(small)-camp bike. I think it's fair to say that it was the most popular bike.
Nice legs there!
Even bad weather can't put us off
Mate, those wheels are original!
Tentville
Viscounts and Lamberts everywhere
After greeting hugging everyone, I started to take every bike for a spin. My mission was to ride every single one, but I kept being side-tracked by new arrivals, more greeting and hugging, and chatting, that I'm sure I've missed a few. Be warned: I'll come for your bikes next year!
Just before we left we took a group photo--certainly a must.
That's at least 16 bikes preserved
Stoatie, the unlucky sod, had a puncture just a minute after starting, but he fixed it in no time and caught up with us soon after. I'm still puzzled as to how he did that and secretly believe he's got super powers. Those, however didn't protect him from getting a second puncture about ten miles in; this time, the sealant worked its magic and we all breathed a sigh of relief as we felt for the poor man. The route was rather beautiful and scenic; quiet--albeit a bit rough--paths through the fields and some curvy roads away from heavy traffic; we even had some rather enjoyable descents. Everyone made an effort trying to chat to one another, moving from person to person in order to get to know each other, or just say hi. Every now and again we were overtaken by two of them who took great pleasure in taking pictures and videos of 'the pack'.
The results can be seen hereandhere.
We stopped at a pub for more chatting, some ales, lagers, and food, before hopping back onto the saddles for the second half of the 24-mile-ride.
Now, even the sun had made an appearance, which was greatly appreciated by everyone. Here's a video one of us took for our Viscount and Lambert club friends from the US and Down Under, and those who couldn't make it.
Once back at the camp we said goodbye to the day-trippers, but not before Steve had ridden the Viscountess. I think the smile speaks for itself.
Not sure what he's looking for, but ...
... the bike got his approval
Those of us who stayed went out for a well-earned dinner. There were some good inclines on the ride, but everyone kept up just fine. The evening ended with us sitting in a large tent, discussing ideas for next year's Death Fork Rally, while having a lager or cider, before we scattered to find our night rest.
What can I say? I've thoroughly enjoyed the past two days and am very much looking forward to DFR3 2015
