Definitely a different class of lightweight racers to get into. If you plan to ride one, there's going to be a sacrifice such as ergonomics, handling, gearing, brakes etc.... but also rewarding. To experience that era, and still get from point A to B. Without doubt, expect a conversation piece.

I don't seek any particular brand or country of origin and prefer the more obscure. Just go with what hits emotions and can fit the frame. Can walk through a show with absolutely top shining bikes, yet somehow will be drawn full on with some crusted masochist thing.

Here's a current listed example, though from a legendary brand that gets my attention. Funny the sale listed title doesn't even say Bianchi. Lower carryover from their pre-war model, described frame design was continued into the early 1950's. Serious patina. Can't even place a monetary value because its only worth what a nut for an old crud bike would crave for.
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From the description:The Freccia Mezza Corsa model represents the most economical model compared to the World Champion in the 1954 Bianchi catalog.

It comes directly from the 1940 Folgore model, the frame and crankset are the same, it is only updated to accommodate the Campagnolo dropouts and mount the Sport or Gran sport gearbox.

Even the components with which it is assembled are taken from fine models of the past.

Compared to the top model, it has 4 pinions (gears) and only one crown, hence the name "half-race".

It is a racing bike in all respects, but with a less competitive configuration. From the chassis number 081447 it is clear that it was built at the end of '53 or the very first months of '54, because it is only in this period that the number zero appears before the chassis serial number, a characteristic that makes it special.

CARATTERISTICHE TECHICHE:

Telaio 081447 misure: 58cm x 55 cm centro/centro