Good day everyone,
I wanted to share a project that started unexpectedly and turned into something very special for me.
I found this Falcon in the bulk trash near my house here in South Florida. I had always wanted to work on a vintage bike project, so I picked it up thinking I would start small and see whether it could be brought back into rideable condition.
My original intention was restoration rather than modernization, clean, preserve, and keep as many original components as possible. The more I cleaned, polished, lubricated, and inspected the bike, the more surprised I became. It appeared to have seen relatively little use, and many of the original components were still in excellent condition.
At some point, the project shifted into what I would call “historic preservation mode.” It increasingly looked like I had stumbled onto what I’ve been calling my Falcon
“Green Machine,” based on the distinctive early-1970s lime green finish.
Based on catalogue research (especially this excellent reference):
https://falconrestorebike.wordpress.com/catalogues/1973-catalogue/
I believe the bike is most likely a
Falcon San Remo Model 94, designed by Ernie Clemens, circa 1973 (±1 year).
Here are the current specs as best as I’ve been able to document them:
San Remo – Designed by Ernie Clemens years between 1972-1974?
Frame: Reynolds 531 double-butted steel (SN: 4987)
Rear derailleur: Campagnolo Nuovo Record (Patent 1972)
Freewheel: Regina G-Scorse Merate
Wheels: 27" tubular racing rims / Campagnolo hubs
Crankset: Campagnolo
Brakes: Weinmann 610 Vainqueur 999
Levers: Weinmann
Pedals: Atom Quill 700
Saddle: Brooks B17
Handlebar: Cinelli Giro d’Italia
As many of you already know, Falcons can be difficult to date precisely, so I would truly appreciate any additional insight regarding year, model confirmation, original specification details, or catalogue references that might help narrow things down further.
I would especially be interested to know whether anyone recognizes the lime green finish as catalogue-correct for the San Remo in this period.
Mostly, I just wanted to share the bike with a community that appreciates these machines as much as I do. It’s been incredibly rewarding bringing this one back to the road!