Vintage Bicycles

Vintage Bicycles

What is a vintage bicycle?

Vintage bikes are typically defined as bikes that were produced between the 1920s and the 1990s, although the earlier date is open to debate. Mostly they are bicycles that have been made by hand and constructed with steel. In the past, steel was widely regarded as the best material for bicycle manufacture as it was considered the most responsive, hard-wearing and versatile material that was readily available. 

What is the difference between an antique bike and a vintage bike?

There are, of course, bikes that out-date vintage bicycles; often referred to as antique bikes, these will be even older and come from before the 1920s. Some of these antiques can still be ridden, but because of their age, they will serve you far better as being a collectible item that you leave out on display. The difference between a vintage bike and an antique bike is that a vintage bike can still be used frequently, provided they are in good condition on purchase and are cared for once you own them.

So is a retro bike a vintage bike?

Many of the companies that operated between the 1920s and 1990s are still producing bikes today. Lots of modern companies, founded outside of this era, are looking back to the golden age of racing bikes for inspiration for models. These modern reproductions are referred to as retro bikes, they may look like a vintage bike, but they will be kitted out with modern componentry and won’t provide the same level of joy as sharing someone else’s piece of history. 

Here is a beautiful example of a retro bike: the Bottecchia Leggendaria. It has the classy style of a vintage bike but has been constructed with modern parts. 

Why should I buy a vintage bicycle?

There is nothing quite like the connection between you and the road as you get from riding a steel vintage bike. Steel is such a forgiving material and is not only capable of surviving the test of time, it also provides one of the most comfortable rides you can get. 

What makes a steel frame so good?

Bumps or abrasions on road surfaces are met with ease on steel vintage frames, making a steel vintage bike a great choice as a commuter bike or a leisure bike for weekend rides. Vintage bikes with steel frames can weigh as little as 8kg! Although steel is considered a heavy alloy, in bicycle manufacturing it provides a great balance between strength, durability and weight - and if your bike is your prized-possession and you want to display it in your house, it won’t pull a wall down!

There are however other things that make vintage bikes brilliant investments:

• Use in everyday life: Due to the high build-quality, vintage bikes can be great companions for everyday riding. 

• Aesthetics: The attention to detail and original designs that comprise vintage bikes can turn them into real gems. Quite often collectors hang their bikes on the wall to display it as though it is a genuine piece of art.
• Driving quality: The sophisticated construction combined with high quality processed steel frames result in low rigidity and a pleasant driving experience.

• Memories: Almost all vintage racing bikes represent a certain era of cycling. An original bike from this time is a tangible reminder of the glory of the past.

• Quality: All vintage racing bikes are handmade, made of steel and constructed with high quality workmanship. There was no facility to make things with automated machines, so every inch of each bike was carefully looked over by an expert when constructed. Qualities that are valued highly these days.

• Collectibles: By definition, vintage racing bikes are limited editions as they are no longer in production. Many models were only produced in finite numbers, some were even released as rare editions. This combination is particularly appealing to collectors.
• Environment: By purchasing a vintage bike, no new resources are used in construction and of course, less waste is created. A win-win. 

• History: Many bicycles are inseparable from famous cycling teams or cyclists. Vintage bikes can therefore offer you the chance to share the same saddle as one of the greats. 

• Value: Since the 1990s, prices of handmade steel bikes have consistently increased, with no end to the growth in sight. A lot of the bikes, therefore, can be used as a wise investment.

• Historic bike events: For participating in historic bike races like L’Eroica, a vintage bike meeting certain criteria is mandatory.

The most famous vintage bike brands

Here is a spectacular example of a Colnago. On show here is the Colnago Mexico TT from 1981, which was used by the USSR Olympic team in the 1980 Olympic games in Moscow. 

Nevertheless, there are many more classic vintage brands out there that are excellent too!

How much is a vintage bike worth?

Vintage bikes can vary greatly in price, but that depends on how many of the bullet points above are met. For example, a bike that meets all the criteria could cost in excess of €30,000.  Normally though vintage bikes will cost between €2,000 and €10,000 - but  you may also be able to find less costly bikes for around €1,000.

However, if you’re extremely lucky, you might be able to source a gem for around €400-€500, these bikes would have been made for comfort and city travelling as opposed to speed. Often, they will be referred to as Mixte or Randonneurs and provide an interesting and reliable alternative to a more expensive vintage road bike.