Cyclo 72 5 speed freewheel

Cyclo 72 freewheel – 5-speed 14 to 20 teeth: a gem for vintage road bikes

In the world of vintage bicycles, every component tells a story. The Cyclo 72 freewheel, with its 5-speed range and 14 to 20 teeth, perfectly embodies the spirit of classic road bike drivetrains — simple, efficient, and mechanically refined. Let’s take a closer look at this iconic part from the golden age of road cycling.

A key part of the retro drivetrain

The freewheel is a central piece of the transmission system. Mounted on the rear wheel hub, it allows the rider to pedal forward and coast without locking the wheel. Before the rise of modern cassettes and integrated freehub bodies, screw-on freewheels like the Cyclo 72 were standard on racing bikes from the 1960s to the 1980s.

With its 5 sprockets ranging from 14 to 20 teeth, this model offers a smooth gear progression, ideal for flat and rolling terrain. It was a favorite among racers and cycling enthusiasts looking for crisp, precise gear changes.

Technical specifications

Here are the main features of the Cyclo 72 freewheel:

• Brand: Cyclo

• Model: 72

• Speeds: 5

• Teeth range: 14-15-16-17-20

• Threading: french 34.7x 100

• Weight: Approx. 400 g

• Material: Hardened steel, nickel-plated or black finish depending on version

• Compatibility: Works with classic rear derailleurs (Simplex, Huret, Campagnolo, etc.)

A perfect fit for authentic restorations

The vintage bike freewheel Cyclo 72 is ideal for enthusiasts who want to preserve the originality of their ride. Whether restoring a Peugeot PX10, Motobécane Profil, or any iconic frame from the 1970s, it pairs beautifully with a period-correct drivetrain: narrow chainrings, traditional roller chains, friction derailleurs, and downtube shifters.

Its robust machining ensures excellent durability, and its distinctive clicking sound adds to the mechanical charm of riding vintage. Mounted on a period-correct tubular or clincher wheelset, it brings the rear wheel of any retro road bike back to life.

For collectors and nostalgic riders

Using a Cyclo 72 freewheel means choosing authentic vintage equipment—perfect for leisure rides, Eroica-style events, or simply for the pleasure of riding the old-school way. It represents a time when bike transmissions were all about finesse, simplicity, and rider involvement.

In short, the Cyclo 72 vintage bike freewheel (5-speed, 14–20T) is more than just a spare part: it’s a piece of cycling history. Whether you're restoring a classic road bike or fine-tuning your retro drivetrain, this freewheel is an obvious choice—both for its period accuracy and its timeless mechanical quality.