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
Bottom bracket issue to be precise. I've finished working on my friend's bike, complete with a delicious handlebar tape job, which was done without any additional tape, by starting at the top, rather than at the bottom. It's the first time I've tried this and I'm quite pleased with the result.
After endlessly fiddling with the brakes--I really love my centre pull brakes, but the set up can be a pain in the arse--I've taken the bike for test ride to the shop to swap the pedals over. (I really need to buy a pedal spanner!)
Goodness, that creaking got on my nerves. I just didn't really know where it came from. It sounded as if it was the seat, but it didn't make a noise when I pedalled backwards. But when I put pressure on the pedals ... that's when it started. After swapping them over it got a bit less, but was still apparent. I investigated and found it looked as if it was cross threaded. Not sure if it's coming loose or what else is going on.
This isn't right!
I'm just not happy with this all. As you can probably remember, the bike initially came with a cottered pin bottom bracket, which I'd foolishly discarded, so I didn't really know what thread it is. My solution now is a threadless bottom bracket, as this is not how a new bike should sound like. I tell you what: I'll take a Viscount or Lambert press-fit bottom bracket any time over any threaded ones. Nevertheless, now, that the bike's all dressed, it's looking rather stunning. BB issue aside.
And here's something to smile at: I 'forced' J, another bike mechanic--normally only riding modern road bikes, to take my blue Sport for a spin, and he liked it.
J. on the blue Aerospace Sport
This bike needs new cables fitted and, somewhere down the line, will be re-build--powderc.-coating and all.
