For collectors of vintage Italian bicycles, this is a beautiful restoration. A piece of Italian nostalgia from the 70s and 80s: a true Italian "Cross" bicycle (often referred to as a Saltafoss-style bicycle). The "Saltafoss" craze In the late 70s and early 80s, these bicycles were the ultimate dream for every teenager in Italy. They were designed to look like motocross bikes (hence the name "Cross"). Although Saltafoss was the most famous brand to start this trend, many other Italian manufacturers (including Ritmo) jumped on the bandwagon with their own versions. Features of the Ritmo: The Ritmo features all the iconic components that make these bicycles so desirable to collectors: * Suspension: Note the double rear shock absorbers (ammortizzatori) and the suspension fork. Although not very technically advanced, they gave the bicycle that rugged "off-road" look. * The "Sella a Banana": The long saddle (banana seat) with the chrome bar on the back, also known as the sissy bar. * The "Cambio a Cloche": One of the most unique features is the gear lever in the middle of the frame. This was intended to mimic shifting in a car or on a motorcycle. * Cross-handlebars and mudguards: The high handlebars and white mudguards complete the motorcycle look. What makes this bike special? Brands like Ritmo were often smaller Italian manufacturers or specific models from larger factories that were sold locally. They are now rarer than the standard Saltafoss models.