The Lug Gallery

Sculptural Metalwork

Each lug represents a transition from raw cast iron to refined craftsmanship. These connection points between tubes are not merely functional—they are expressions of engineering artistry, where form follows function in the most elegant way.

Nervex Lugs

Raw Cast Iron

The journey begins with cast iron lugs fresh from the foundry. These rough forms contain the potential for precision, waiting for the skilled hand that will reveal their true character through careful filing and thinning.

Filed and Thinned

Through patient filing, the lug transforms. Excess material is removed, edges are refined, and the lug takes on its final shape. This process requires understanding both the material and the intended aesthetic.

Prugnat Lugs

Distinctive Design

Prugnat lugs carry a unique character that distinguishes frames built with these components. Their shape reflects French frame-building traditions, emphasizing both strength and elegance.

Restoration Process

Restoring Prugnat lugs requires careful attention to their original contours. We preserve the distinctive features that make these lugs recognizable while ensuring structural integrity.

Cinelli Lugs

Italian Craftsmanship

Cinelli lugs represent Italian frame-building excellence. Their design reflects the racing heritage of Italian cycling, where every detail contributes to performance and aesthetics.

Precision Details

Under magnification, the precision of Cinelli lug work becomes apparent. Each file stroke, each thinned section, contributes to the lug's final appearance and the frame's overall character.

The Art of Filing

Filing lugs is both technical skill and artistic expression. The frame builder must understand material properties, stress points, and aesthetic goals. Each lug tells a story of the builder's approach, from conservative thinning to aggressive sculpting that reveals the lug's inner structure.