This 24 ½" Experto was rescued from a rubbish tip in England. Some previous owner had had an eyelet added to the right rear dropout to take a mech, but otherwise the frame appeared to be in original condition. The paint was chipped, but there was no rust. The new owner had it restored by Argos of Bristol in red flam with gold trim.
The Type 6 was listed in the catalogs as a road racing frame, replica of the Tour of Britain model. This frame was first sold on 10 June 1955. Note the spear-point fork crown and oval fork blades, somewhat unusual for a Hetchins of this vintage. The lugs are cast (a pressed version appeared in 1956).
The components include Shimano Tiagra Flight Deck 9-speed brake/gear shifters, Shimano 105 crank set, mechs, and hubs (model HB-5501 VIA). The owner claims that the hub fits into the narrow 1950s dropouts as is; no spreading of the dropouts was necessary. The Dual-pivot brakes with old-style external hex-nut fitments are by Acor. Wheels are Mavic MA3 rims with Panaracer Pasela Tourguard 700/28 tires. This is an excellent example of how to keep an old beauty running and safe in modern traffic.
Photos courtesy of the owner.
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