The Virtual Musette: A Road Cycling Blog

Although I had been to Chuck Schmidt’s Velo-Retro site before, it had been a while since I’d last visited. When I checked in a couple of weeks ago, I discovered some new things had been added to the already impressive line-up of hard to find items, most featuring vintage cycling images.

First, in keeping with the theme of this site, for the cyclist (or cyclist in your life) who has everything, check out these vintage musettes (image left).

What can one do with a musette? Well, straight from the horse’s mouth:

“These musettes are perfect for short day rides, runs to the store or post office, or any other ride where all you might need is a wallet, a windbreaker, and a place to put any goodies you might pick up! Wonderful for walking & hiking too..."

In addition to the six shown above, there are another six designs available. All are available for $19.95 (US).

Velo-Retro has always had a nice assortment of vintage T-shirts, but many more have recently been added. My favorite is this one featuring "The Pedaler of Charm," Hugo Koblet Other classic riders (who have, or will be, featured in The Virtual Musette) are also available: Andre Leducq, Eugene Christophe, Ottavio Bottecchia, Louison Bobet, Alfredo Binda, Fausto Coppi, and of course, Eddie Merckx. The shirts are produced on an as needed basis, so you can choose to have the images placed on either the front or back. Most shirts are priced at $19.95, and you have your choice of seventeen colors from which to pick; Velo-Retro will also accept international orders.

Also worth mentioning is the huge assortment of bike catalogue and brochure reproductions.

While you are visiting be sure to check out the Links section, as there is a  pretty extensive selection of sites for the vintage enthusiast.

All images compliments of Velo-Retro.