Explore
the fascinating and incredibly rich history behind this famous
constructeur in this definitive, 424-page book. Follow René Herse
starting with his early work on prototype aircraft. Join him at the 1938
Technical Trials, where his bike created a sensation: Fully equipped
with wide tires, fenders, lights and a rack, it weighed just 7.94 kg
(17.5 lb), lighter than any similar bike today.
Witness the difficult years during World War II and learn how cyclists used their bikes both to forage the country for food, and also to spend time with friends and to help each other. Watch amazing performances in the Poly de Chanteloup hillclimb race and Paris-Brest-Paris, as well as famous professional racers who rode René Herse's frames to victory in national and world championships. Visit the workshop and learn how American customers helped to keep the lights on during the difficult period of the 1960s.
Recollections from Herse's daughter, Lyli, from his employees and especially from riders who rode on his team paint a vivid portrait of a gentle, hard-working man who loved cycling and bicycles. More than 400 historic photos, most taken by professional photographers, bring the story to life. Complementing this history are contemporary studio photographs of 20 René Herse bicycles, from one of the first machines, made in 1941, to the last bikes, built in the 1980s. Each bike is shown in profile and with detail photographs that illustrate why these bikes are so special.
For more photos, information and/or a Limited Edition of this book, visit the Compass Cycles web site.