Letter From the Editor
5 July 2025


The Editor just returned from a vintage cycle event in Weinheim, Germany, VeloWino by name. A sharp eye pointed out a 1940s bicycle to my attention. The manufacturer's name may not be familiar to riders outside Germany, but the model name will be. Take a gander.

<> VeloWino, (Germany, annual classic bike event)




















Toni Merkens was a well-known and well-liked track rider in the 1930s, in England as well as Germany. He rode for other marques, in addition to Hetchins. Hetchins issued a Toni Merkens model track frame, but it did not prove to be very popular and only one exemplar is known to have survived.

In case anyone thought no one is still seriously racing Hetchins anymore, the Editor has credible evidence that this young lady is seriously contesting triathlons on a Mag. Opus. Kudos, Georgia, show those carbon sissies your curvy rear end!




The Editor will be away from his desk for the rest of July, attending (among other events) the annual Hetchins ride in Banbury. Replies to emails will be sporadic until August.



email:




|   Introduction   |   Editorial   |   The Hetchins Register  |

|   Restoration   |   Identification (Serial Numbers)  |

|   The Various Models   |   Rare Models  |

|   Catalogs   |   Production History  |

|   Racing Heritage   |   Harry, Jack,& Alf   |   Special Features  |

|   Frame Components   |   Transfers   |   Lug Designs  |

|   Gallery  |

|   For Sale Used   |   New Production  |

|   Other Marques   |   Copycats  |

|   Contacts & Links   |  toc  |

home