ALAN frames
 

I recently came across an ALAN framw. From what I can decipher, these are Itailan annodized aluminum frames. I got this info from Sheldonbrown.com. Does anyone have any info n these frames? what would ont that is in very good conditon be worth?


thanks in advance...

Usually Sheldon Brown has the best information. But, my vague memory was that the ALAN aluminum frames were French.

What something is worth is always up to the buyer and seller. You could search E-Bay for completed auctions. In general, it does not seem as if most old frames bring a lot on E-Bay unless they are a "prestige" frame, such as the Paramount frames of the 1960's.

ALAN frames are Italian. They are screwed and glued together. It is possible for a mechanic to dis-assemble the frame to replace a tube (or so the story goes). I know the ALAN frames were used fro many years with great success in cyclocross in Europe (approx. 20 years). I believe they won many world championships.

Many of the frames had aluminium tubes but ALAN did use carbon fibre tubes with their aluminium lugs to produce very desirable frames. Other framemakers did use ALAN frames with their own decals.

The frames are quite comfortable to ride despite being made from aluminium but, rumor has it that they begin to 'sag' with extended use (mine is still very nice to ride).

Mine is a road frame with Campy Super Record. It weighs much the same (slightly lighter) as a regular steel frame of that era. I have also seen Lo-pro frames.

I do see advertisments for ALAN frames in magazines, but they appear to be similar to the regular aluminium frames available today.

Just to add to the above: ALAN is still in business, but the newer frames I have seen were more conventional welded aluminum. A friend of mine still enjoys riding his screwed and glued version. Some say that it may be a good idea to get a new fork on the old ones. Last time I was at the Trexlertown swap meet (the most recent one was yesterday, which I missed) there was someone selling a NOS ALAN cross frame. Don't know what these frames fetch, but I doubt they are worth a lot. Do some research on eBay for prices.

well, I picked it up for $85. its a triathlon frame fitted for 650 cc wheels. I plan to turn it into my commuter singlespeed, as I only commute about 1.75 miles a day. with its size and size wheels, I think it should be a nice light and quick bike. i'll post some images when I get it done.


Any ideas oout there on a place for cheap 650 cc wheels?

fyi, JBW and minneapolisbike are the same person, I forgot my old login..doh!