Eric Clapton, bicycler...

Apparently the musician stopped into Feal Mor's stylish apparel cum vintage bike digs in Los Angeles recently. This, according to Dale of the Velo (World's Smallest Bikeshop) who has provided many of those sexy two-wheeled prizes to drool on within the doors of Feal Mor. Much (at least some) of the conversation revolved around bikes. J.P., the proprietor of Feal Mor, is himself, no slouch when it comes to an appreciation of all things two wheels. I would have given up a portion of my day to be present at that interchange of words.

Anyway, that got my interest flowing, so I did a little search, found the above photo which was on Cyclelicious last year, and and a little bit from Bike Snob NYC from a few years ago.

inside Feal Mor, from their blog (link above)

Nishiki Road Compe...

OMG. This is the most spectacular bike I have seen pass through the Velo in a while, and that is saying something, because I have spotted a number of sweet, vintage rides over this past year.

The fact that it is my favorite color makes it that much better, but irregardless, the Mafac Racer brake calipers, early DuraAce levers, the spotless chrome lugs with the gold highlighting, San Marco saddle, cool head badge, and more, combine for one complete and beautiful package.

I was happy just snapping photos of all the little details, such as the hearts (one shown below) on the downtube, or the spotless DuraAce brake levers.

The story takes a little turn here, when J. P. Plunier, designer and founder of Feal Mor, drives up and the Nishiki disappears into the back of his car. I had met J. P. earlier in the year during Claremont's Tweed Ride, so knew of his interest in cycling and in vintage bikes. I also knew that he had just recently opened up his flagship store in Los Angeles which, to compliment his line of custom clothing, was being decorated with many such vintage rides. Anyway, the point is, if you are in the area (click on Feal Mor for the link and address information), the store should be well worth a visit.