Originally Posted by
rpenmanparker
It is incredible how much wrong information you believe at any one time. Is there any limit?
The source of my wrong information was this blog
On Bicycles, and.... what else is there?: Time trial position: Anquetil versus Martin
Originally Posted by [URL="http://www.blogger.com/profile/01484858820878605035"
djconnel [/URL] ] First, consider the bikes. Anquetil's wheelbase is longer, especially due to longer chainstays That was the style then: due to relatively rough roads, the chain-stays were kept long to reduce vibrations. Additionally, the front fork was dramatically raked to act as a spring, reducing vibrations at the front as well.
The wikipedia article on bicycle forks claims that "Curved fork blades can also provide some shock absorption." (as well as to reduce the trail)
Bicycle fork - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The folks here debate the merits of straight and raked forks, suggesting that the raked ones are for bumpy roads
gitaneusa.com :: View topic - straight forks
This PDF about the Gitane Grand Sport De Luxe also claims that the raked out forks lead to a *smooth* "French Ride."
http://trinaortega.com/wp-content/up...24_vintage.pdf
Goodly French Flex