This is the second of today’s OTSG Firsts, and was provided kindly by Steve P. This is his dutch built Batavus Monte Carlo. (If I ever have a son, I think I’ve found a name!)
Hi My name is Steve and this is my best Craigslist find yet, It’s an early 70’s Batavus Type Monte Carlo road bike. I’ve seen a few other Batavus bikes around but never one like this.
In case anyone is curious Batavus is a very old bike builder in Holland, I’ve had a hard time finding out much about these bikes and although they aren’t real high end bikes they’re really cool (I think anyways).
I bought this from the original owner who had it hanging in his garage for the last 20+ years, as far as I can tell it’s virtually 100% original other than tires. It’s in amazing condition and just needed greasing and air in the tires although the front tire is a bit sketchy.
It’s got Altenburger brakes, Huret derailleurs, original leather toe straps, Grand Prix seat (it’s like a plastic/rubber Brooks B-17) and the bar wrap is even original although every Batavus I’ve seen has the same wrap so it must be amazingly tough.
The best part is it’s got a standover height of 35 1/2 inches and a 22″ top bar so it fits me and my 6’6″ frame perfectly. I also bought his wifes bike which I’ll send in soon.
Thanks Steve