Pennine Italia - 1970

Frame purchased used from Whitaker and Mapplebeck in 1971 for £6-0-0, (a real bargain as the new price at the time was around six times that price). This was an adaptable build that took both sprint and HP wheels.  Originally equipped with Stronglight 49D/TA  Cranks with Lyotard pedals (now sadly worn out) and Campagnolo Record steel rear mechanism.  I bought the seat pin in Rome in 1975.

I sold the bike to my brother in 1980, who rode it continuously until late 2007; re-acquired by me in May 2008, frame reconditioned by Bob Jackson Cycles of Leeds, reunited with seat pin and saddle, together with wheels built up in mid-1990’s from 1970’s components, and other contemporary parts from a variety of sources. Parts used are 1970’s originals except for handlebars and tape, BB Axle, tyres, chain and freewheel. Note, the frame restoration has been supplemented by added details of replica Reynolds 531 tubing transfer and “Alpine” cameo scene on wrap over part of seat stays.  This is as close as I can get to the original: it was a charming feature of Pennine frames of this era, as noted in the article on Whitakker & Mapplebeck/Pennine by Peter Underwood. This frame was used a little for time trialling in the 1970’s but thereafter mainly for touring/commuting.