Back from the Classic Rendezvous Weekend
Tue, May 22, 2018 
It was such a joy to attend the Classic Rendezvous Weekend event in Greensboro, North Carolina. I always look to these events as an opportunity to meet old friends and make new ones. I did plenty of that.
It was also great to be reunited with many examples of my past work, and to talk with the owners. Most had corresponded via email for years, but this was the first time we had met face to face, and to actually shake hands.
For example, a 1983 custom Criterium bike, #9832. Built for the Interbike Show that year. I had corresponded with at least three different owners for the last 15 years, but last weekend got to meet the current owner John Ames. (Picture above.) Also this was the first time I had laid eyes or hands on this bike since it was picked up by one of my dealers after the Interbike Show some 35 years ago.
John has done a fine job of restoring this bike to its former glory, while keeping the original paint finish. Skillfully mixing paint and touching in the tiny chips with a brush. The result is the bike has character, a story to tell, (Read here.) but still retaining its original beauty.
Contrastingly, 1st. Generation Fuso #171, built in San Marcos, CA. in the first six months of production. Now owned by John Majors, (Above.) who bought the frame with paint and decals in as pristine condition as the day it left my shop. Like going back in time and buying a brand new frame. Makes me wonder, how many more unused gems are still out there waiting to be found.
I had met John Majors and his wife a few years ago when they visited Charleston. It was nice to reunite with them both again.
Peter Stock (Above.) had traveled from his home in Toronto, Canada, He brought his built in 1989 Fuso FRX #1643. His bike it appears is even more traveled, it has a French Bike Shop sticker on it. This is one of two Fuso bikes owned by Peter. This one he has owned since 2010, the other he picked up in 2013. We had corresponded before, but met for the first time at the CR Weekend.
Thanks to Dale Brown, of Cycles De Oro, Wayne Bingham, and others who make this event happen.
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Reader Comments (5)
Any idea what that custom Criterium frame retailed for back in 1983?????....I started riding in 1983.
Bill,
I believe this frame which had a lot of chrome would have retailed in 1983 for around $800 for the frame and fork. The bike was built up with a Campagnolo 50th. Anniversary Groupo. Not sure of the price of the complete bike. Less than $2,000 probably. It is worth more than that today, with no adjustment for inflation.
Dave.
an $800 top quality from in 1983 is $2000 converted to 2018 $$$...…...Your's was a bargain. A top quality steel frame and fork costs $2600 now. (without "fancy cut" lugs or chrome)
Dave, It was great to see you and Kathy once again, The more I see your frames and forks, the more I see, that you are a true craftsman, an icon in this business, I am honoured to be your friend and mate. Wish we could turn the clock back a few years so more could enjoy your work.
Hi Dave -
Sorry I didn't say hi at the event. I met you a couple times at trade shows and at Terry Shaw's place when I was working in the industry during the 70's/80's. Always admired your frame sets.
I just moved to DC from California, so this was my first opportunity to attend the CR. Was fun catching up with a few folks who we did business with back in those days, not to mention catching sight of many fabulous bicycles. Reinforced my old opinions about how great the artistry and vision was back then.
Cheers -
Bern Smith