Terzot

Hi everyone, so i've got opportunity to buy this bike. Seller told me there are mavic rims, simplex derailleurs, stronglight crankset, from the picture i can see probably mafac brakes and mafac brakes levers.
I can't find more information about Rolland vintage bikes. Do you know this company, is this bike worth buying for 60-70 dollars? If you could post some photos of similar bikes from this company i would be grateful.

cb400bill

Thread moved from C&V to C&V Appraisals.

TenGrainBread 

Looks like an mid-level bike from the mid-to-late 70s.

Looks French, possibly built under contract by Mercier.

When you go to take a look at the bike, make sure the fork isn't bent.

If the frame and fork are straight, I'd say worth the asking price.

juvela

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Machine named for professional cyclist Antonin Rolland.

Born 3 September 1924.

TdF yellow jersey 1955.

At various points in career rode for cycle makers Rochet, Mercier and Terrot.

Founded retail cycle shop, Cycles Rolland, in Versailles.

Still alive today at age ninety-five!

Granddaughter Marion a champion skier.




https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antonin_Rolland

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blamester

Tubular rims if that makes a difference to you.
Still worth the asking.
Nice story about Rolland.

T-Mar

The font derailleur appears to be a Simplex LJ A100 which, if OEM, places it late 1970s. Given the lack of brazed-on fittings, it is probably circa 1975-1977. It would also suggest mid-range, along with the tubular wheelset and Stronglight crankset. I don't see any remnants of tubing decals but the presence of tube cable clips again suggests mid-range, possibly tre-tubi with a hi-tensile forks and stays mated to a better grade main triangle. At worst it should be a lightweight hi-tensile steel. This is fairly typical of French, mid-range, racing models of the era.

Be aware that Stronglight cranksets of this vintage require a dedicated crank puller and they're not cheap. Buying one on-line will almost equal the cost of the bicycle itself.(~$50 US). See if the owner has one and will include it with the bicycle. Cheap, replacement tubular tyres will cost about the same. French bicycles of this era also have unique threading and some uniquely sized parts, so replacements can be more difficult and costly to find, if needed. My main concern would be the condition of the bearing races.

This is a very attractive price. Just be aware, that costs can add up quickly on a 1970s, French racing bicycle, depending on the amount of work required.

KenNC

I would go for that for sure, if it were my size and didn't have a major issue like a bent fork. I really like the lesser known brands with an interesting back story like this one--call me sentimental. One issue with an uncommon brand is you won't be able to get replacement decals off-the-shelf, but the decals on your prospect look just fine!

Terzot

So i bought this bike for 80, but i got extra front wheel. The tubulars does not hold air well so i will probably have to change them, i know it cost some money but i did knew it before buying. The crankset does not have any loose so theres no need to take it off. Just some cleaning and its ready to ride, here you have some more photos.

juvela

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Thanks very much for the update.

Good to read it worked out well for you.

Looks like a most excellent buy!

The Cycles Rolland shop, founded by Antonin Rolland in 1946, is still in operation in Versailles; now called Cycles Jacquot.

Perhaps someone there can give you additional information regarding your machine should you wish to explore it.

Might be of interest to know actual maker...

Cycles Jacquot Versailles

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TenGrainBread 

I disagree. The bike clearly hasn't been serviced in a long time and the bearings will need cleaning and regreasing.

Terzot

You are probably right, i will look for proper crank puller in my city in Poland, there are many places where people restore vintage bicycles so i will ask them if they can help me