Identifying features of the GIOS Torino bicycle frames

This is a translation of the material on this GIOS Torino web page, which is available only in Italian.
I completed the description with pictures taken from commercial web sites like Classic Steel Bikes and Steel Vintage Bikes.

If you own an original GIOS Torino bicycle, make sure to register your bike on the Registro Storico that is maintained on the GIOS Torino web site.

GIOS Super Record

The GIOS Super Record frame is most probably the most well known frame of the GIOS production.  The model was created in 1973, corresponding to the foundation of the Brooklyn cycling team. The model did not evolve until 1977. This first series has the following characteristics:

• Gt logo pantographed under the bottom bracket shell. The size (for example 53) is usually engraved on the bottom bracket shell as well.
• Campagnolo cable guides above the bottom bracket shell
• "Gios torino" written on the seat and down tubes, white on blue background
• Chrome-platte fork, with Gt pantographed on the crown.

In 1978, there are only minor changes to the graphics: the text becomes "GIOS torino" in black on white background, and the "Super Record" on the horizontal tube uses a more modern font.

In 1979, the design of the fork crown changes, featuring the coin-like inserts with the text 'CREAZIONI GIOS ITALIA'. The pantograph underneath the bottom bracket shell becomes 'GIOS' (instead of Gt). The text on the horizontal tube becomes "Super Record GIOS".

GIOS Aerodynamic

In 1981 GIOS introduces the Aerodynamic model:

• frame assembled from Columbus 'Air' tubes
• gear levers are mounted on top of the down tube
• fork with aerodynamic crown (no pantographs)
• "GIOS torino" written in black on metallic grey background

GIOS Professional

From 1983 the design of the original Super Record is enhanced to become the 'GIOS Professional':

• brake cables are led inside the frame, with rubber joints to make it waterproof
• 'ponticello' that reinforces the frame between the chain stays is integrated into the bottom bracket shell
• aerodynamic fork crown and seat post tightening screw
• 'GIOS Professional' text on the horizontal tube
• More colors become available every year:
• 1983: Gios Blue
• 1984: Gios Blue and White
• 1985: Gios Blue, White, Black and Chrome
• 1986: Gios Blue, White, Black, Chrome and Red

GIOS Compact

In 1986 Aldo Gios invents the GIOS Compact, a system that allows fast and easy adjustment of the position of the rear wheel (vertical and horizontal).

The overall look of the GIOS bicycles becomes more modern.