Thursday, December 16, 2010

Cinelli Riviera





A CINELLI ONLY reader sent me several photos of a Cinelli he could not quite identify. After conferring with some of my more expert friends they confirmed it was a Cinelli "Riviera".

It's much rarer to see a Riviera than a Super Corsa. The Riviera, as can be seen from the text in the 1963 Ron Kitching catalog, was marketed (at least in England) as a bicycle "perfect for the beginner (that) can be used for all cycling purposes". The Super Corsa is described as the "replica of the machines used by the Italian professional road aces....".

There is also a twist in the Riviera story. The Garlatti company certainly made Riviera frames for Cinelli that were destined for export. However, Cinelli also made Rivieras for the Italian market that were better finished. Any additional information regarding these points would be welcome.

Photos: Cinelli Riviera lug details, click to enlarge.

I invite you to contribute by sending in photographs of your Cinelli bike, illustrations, personal stories, and articles about Cinelli bikes and components.

A Riviera decal on a 1960 Riviera frame (photo courtsy of Georg):


Thanks for stopping by.

I can be contacted at veronaman@gmail.com

3 comments:

  1. I have a Riviera frame and need some parts to restore it. Can anyone help me find a seat post clamp, forks, metal headbadge?

    ReplyDelete
  2. Hi,
    Seat post clamps appear on eBay from time to time. the correct one is chromed and with a Greek "key" pattern.
    However, others are available that would be period correct, if not as ex-factory.
    The metsl headbadge was often stolen I suppose as secured by two small screws. Reproductions are available and would look smart. The enamel on original badges was not very good and came off with a good clean!
    Forks are more difficult, but maybe off a Corse/salvage?
    Hope this helps.
    Regards,
    Antoine.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Thanks Antoine,
    The frame has been painted and looks very smart, I also have some Campag Record hubs I am building into wheels.
    I will keep an eye on eBay for the seta clamp.

    Regards

    ReplyDelete