In the 1970's British aerospace workers started a company using "aerospace industry" tubing for their fillet brazed frames. These bikes were inexpensive and very lightweight (3.75 pound frame). The bicycles were named Lambert's, a name that changed to Viscount, when Trusty acquired the company in 1976. Trusty considered this as adding a premium line to their business. The bikes were equipped with a surprisingly heavy, bonded aluminum fork. Some 30 of these forks failed thus earning the name "Viscount Death Fork". A large recall ensued replacing the Death Forks" with steel forks. It is said that the problem was fixed in the third version of the "Death Fork." Sadly the damage was done and Viscount Aerospace bikes faded into history. I find them to be a nice ride, very lightweight (for their day) and undervalued.
Frame:
Viscount Aerospace, fillet brazed, Italian BB shell, stays cold set to 126mm
Fork/Headset:
Sakae aluminum / Velo Orange sealed
Crankset/Bottom Bracket:
Luxe / Specialized Titanium, Italian cups, sealed bearings
Pedals:
MKS Pro Vic III
Drivetrain/Cog/Chainring/Chain:
7 speed/14-34/ 46-30
Derailleurs/Shifters:
R Shimano Crane GS, F Shimano Deer Head/ Suntour Accushift
Saddle/Seatpost:
Specialized Toupe/American Classic
Brakes:
Weinmann Carrera
Front Wheel/Hub/Tire:
Shimano 600 / Araya 700c
Rear Wheel/Hub/Tire:
Shimano 600 / Araya 700c
More Info:
This frame has a modified BB shell. The original BB was press fit; this one has been threaded as Italian. This bike is in no way original, just fun. I must admit, I built it from vintage spare parts that were languishing in my shop. At 20 lbs 8 ounces it is very light for a steel bike, with vintage components, and clinchers. I am not certain of the model year. The traditional Viscount white with red trim was replaced with black with red trim; I just liked it that way. The short gears are nice in the mountains. There is something special about the way an old Viscount rides.
Added by OldRoadieTehachapi. Last updated about 3 years ago.
As of about 3 years ago, OldRoadieTehachapi has indicated that they no longer own this bike.
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