Cycles Mercier is a French bicycle manufacturer founded in 1919 by Emile Mercier in Saint-Etienne, the cradle of French cycling manufacturing.
From the 1930s through to the 1980s they sponsored cycling teams which helped them to establish the status of a high end sports bike manufacture. Many famous Champions like Raymond Poulidor made the bikes famous the world over.
At the time when Mercier had a particular stronghold in professional cycling, their top class racing bikes were some of best you could get in France. - Just like our Mercier 531 Top Class Road Bike from the 1960s.
The frame of the bike consists of a combination which was possibly responisble for more cycling victories than any other: intricate Nervex Professional lugs and lightweight butted Reynolds 531 tubing.
As for the parts, the core is formed by Campagnolo Record Components of the first generation. The bearings of which are still turning silky smooth.
Some French parts must not be missing on such a bike and if so, they have to be top notch. Which explains why there is a Philippe Professionel Cockpit installed as well as Mafac Dural Forge brakes and a Stronglight Super Competition crankset.
Of all other parts we have to mention the excellent Weinmann world champion rims with wooden core as well as the original Brooks B17 Swallow saddle from 1965 which is in an unbelievably good condition.
Being fully equipped, the Mercier comes of course with a pump, a bottle holder and Pedals with original Paturaud clips and straps.
All in all a collection of the finest stuff money could get you in the 1960s.
Our Mercier is a beautiful piece of wall decoration and a stately bike for an occasional gentle jaunt.
