Prepare to be amazed by this Italian masterpiece on two wheels! We're talking about a hand-crafted bicycle that embodies the aerodynamic spirit of the 1980s. But here's the catch: it's from a framebuilder you might not have heard of before.
Simoncini, based in the charming Castelfiorentino, Tuscany, has been quietly crafting frames for renowned brands like Ciocc, Viner, and Orbea for decades. However, it's only recently, since 2017, that the brand has returned to its roots, with the third-generation Simoncini, Eugenio, at the helm, producing frames under the family name.
The sleek 1988 frameset we have here is a rare gem from that era. Its distinctive look comes from the star-shaped Columbus tubing, possibly SLX, combined with a sloping top tube and a 26-inch front wheel. This design was all the rage in the '80s as cyclists sought to gain an aerodynamic edge. But, as they say, all good things must come to an end, and the UCI soon put a stop to it, banning bikes with different wheel sizes.
(Image: Future)
This beauty is kitted out with period-correct time trial bars, the iconic Cinelli LA 84 model, paired with a 1/R stem. The 1984 Los Angeles Olympics saw these low-profile bikes dominate the track, and the aerodynamic theme continues with a Campagnolo aero bottle and cage, as well as a Campy aero seat post.
(Image: Future)
The build is a true celebration of Italian craftsmanship. Apart from the Vittoria Competition tires and the Selle San Marco Rolls saddle, with its elegant white leather cover, the bike is a Campagnolo showcase. The Record groupset, featuring the legendary Delta brake calipers, even includes the pedals. The Shamal wheels, 650c at the front and 700c at the rear, use 16 bladed spokes, with a unique crossing pattern of eight spokes on the gear side and eight laced radially on the other.
And this is the part most people miss: the controversy surrounding these pursuit bikes. While they offered an aerodynamic advantage, they were short-lived due to UCI regulations. So, what do you think? Was the UCI right to ban these bikes, or should they have allowed more freedom in the pursuit of speed? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
