c.1942 Rene Herse Tandem Project
c.1942 Rene Herse Tandem Project
Offers over £2750
Overview
A rare opportunity to acquire a René Herse tandem numbered 2342, likely dating from 1942. This is a stalled restoration project from a previous owner, offered exactly as-is in its unfinished state.
An honest, challenging project for a dedicated builder to finish, or a useful donor machine for someone needing rare, authentic constructeur parts and frame components. It is not a candidate for a quick or easy show-winning restoration, but offers a foundation of highly desirable parts.
Important: The front fork has significant deep corrosion at the right-hand side of the crown and is structurally compromised. Professional metalwork, repair or complete fork replacement is required before the bicycle can be safely ridden. Components are only loosely assembled for the photographs.
Measurements
Front / captain seat tube: 50 cm.
Rear / stoker seat tube: 48 cm.
Both measured from the centre of the bottom bracket to the top of the saddle tubes.
Wheel size: 650B.
Components
Gears: Cyclo gear lever fitted to the frame. No derailleurs are included. Based on the frame fittings, a Le Chat front derailleur has been suggested as the original fitment; the dedicated rear hanger suggests a Cyclo rear derailleur was likely fitted originally.
Brakes: Alloy centre-pull brakes with LAM levers.
Wheels / tyres: Rebuilt 650B wheels with brand new Michelin tan-wall tyres. The hubs are possibly intended for a solo bicycle rather than tandem-specific units.
Chainsets / pedals: Genuine René Herse cranks and chainwheels included; re-chromed steel quill pedals.
Handlebars / stems: Polished alloy handlebars front and rear, with genuine René Herse captain and stoker stems.
Saddles: Two new old stock Selles A.M. leather saddles with full alloy frames and rails.
Other fittings: Genuine René Herse rear carrier fitted to the rear mudguard; polished alloy mudguards with a JOS dynamo rear lamp fitted to the rear guard.
Condition and originality
The frame and fork have been re-nickel-plated, but the restoration remains unfinished.
Front fork: Significant, deep corrosion is present on the top of the front fork, specifically on the right-hand side of the crown. This area is structurally compromised despite the re-plating. It requires professional metalwork, repair or complete replacement of the fork before the bicycle can be safely ridden. Please study the detailed photographs of this area.
Assembly: Components have been loosely dry-fitted only to show the general configuration and included parts. Please review the photographs carefully to assess the parts, clearances and general condition.
History
Frame number: 2342, likely dating from 1942. Acquired as a stalled restoration project from the previous owner.
Viewing and delivery
Viewing and collection by arrangement. Please enquire for a delivery quotation to your destination.
How to buy
HOW TO BUY?
“Collectors worldwide are welcome. To purchase this bicycle, click Enquire below and include your country and postcode. We’ll confirm availability and provide a personalised packing and delivery quote. Once agreed, we’ll send you a secure checkout link to pay for the bicycle and shipping together.”