BRW April 24 meet: a summary

No one could have asked for better weather for Boston Retro Wheelmen’s second meet. With temps in the 60s and the sun shining, the streets of Union square were alive with people, and cyclists were out in full force. Several of us Wheelmen gathered at Bloc 11 to chat, show off our vintage rides, enjoy some coffee and even tackle some projects. The outdoor space at Bloc 11 proved the perfect setting.  Okay, on to the bikes!

Here’s Mark’s Schwinn Breeze, found abandoned outside his home in Cambridge, and lovingly given a new life:

Next up, Dave’s Schwinn World Voyager, one of the finer touring bikes of its era:

Cycler brought Minerva, her early 70s Raleigh DL1.  Never a stranger to DIY challenges, Cycler brought a cache of tools with the specific intent of installing a new heavy duty Dutch rack… no easy feat on a vintage bike with non-standard frame fittings.

Success! It not only fits perfectly, but also complements Minerva’s overall aesthetic. Wouldn’t you agree?

 
Fast-forward to the present, Nao of 3rrr products brought his gorgeous Soma Fabrications cross frame bike, which he built up as a classic randonneur.  Although not “vintage”, this bike oozes classic with its timeless design and first-rate workmanship, and that’s just fine by us!

Look at that hand-cut head badge! (You can also check out more examples of 3rrr’s work).  What a nice, personal touch!

And I’d be remiss not to mention the youngest Wheelman I met today, Nao’s 3-year year old son Fugo. Like any true Wheelman, he couldn’t keep his hands off the beautiful bikes that graced the yard of Bloc 11!

Mark, in what seems to be becoming a ritual act:

Dave, inspired by Cycler’s array of tools, helps himself to a wrench to make some adjustments:
My 1986 Union:

Fugo really loves that Soma! (or was it just his way of communicating that it was time to hit the road?)

Good conversation, a nice collection of classic and vintage rides, and a project or two… essential elements of Boston Retro Wheelmen.  Perhaps for future meets a group ride can be tossed into the mix?
Thanks to all who made it today… hope to see you at the next meet (date and time TBA)!
More pictures of the day’s event

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