Patelli Special Course Classic Steel Bicycle 1960

Based in Bologna, Patelli is a bespoke frame manufacturer, who in the 1940s started specializing in high end road bicycles and cycling tools. It was in fact a triumvirate of three brothers - Luigi, Umberto and Sergio Patelli. They all worked for a small artisanal brand Testi, where Luigi became a very skilled welder. It was aslo Luigi, who was responsible for frame building, while other two brother took care of the business. Patelli manufacturing background led to precision that was second to none. The attention is evident in the refined lugs and intricate engravings throughout their machines.

Since Patelli was such a small manufacturer, and worked so meticulously on every frame, it lacked the resources to equip a professional team. However, this did not stop many from recognising the craftsmanship of their work, and it was adopted by cyclists in the highest ranks of Italian racing. In the 1980s, for example, several Italian amateur championships - a prestigious title, indeed - were won a Patelli.

This Patelli Special Course is one of the earlier ones and stems from early 60s, possibly from the very year of 1960, one of those which were still made in the original workshop in via San Vitale. It arrived at our shop on original condition. If we take a closer look at the frame presented here, we find what we would expect from an absolute top class artisan. The clean lugs and the typicaL cutouts represent a frame that was made with pride. Nice touch are the chromed head tube lugs, making the bike even more classy.

This Special Course is still equipped mostly with the original parts such as Campagnolo Record and Gran Sport, Ideale saddle, Ambrosio Champion cockpit and Universal Extra brakes.

Old Patelli bikes do not apper very often and this is an opportunity to purchase one, which is in original contidion yet with proper patina.