Very generously given this today by another RB member. What to do with it? I already have a Pro Image which is built up and is my favourite old bike. Not sure, build it up as a retro hack? or, restore it then ruin it by riding in the mud?

These are very rare in the UK. Only 3 known examples on RB and I have 2 of them!

Restore and ruin.
You know it makes sense.

how bad is the dent in the top tube?

its funny how the parkpre stickers always survive but the model decals always go

if you already have one built build this one with modern kit and ride it as long as its sound

Top tube dents look worse than they really are. Thinking of building it into a retro hack bike to save my more precious metal from trail fatigue.

I'd go down this route too, Chris..

^^^^

yep, id do that too

if you're going to do that, might as well sling a modern deore group on there. that stuff is tough as old boots.

Fill dent.

Rattle can paint job & maybe a new Parkpre HT decal

Parts bin build - maybe use the build kit off of your blue bike.

Ride.

Use t' other (your) frame as a basis for a catalog rebuild & cherish.

Just my thoughts though

Retro Hack with cantis....I know how you love them!

Build it as is all unpolished and dusty....make a nice contrast to your super shiny example.

Some progress today. All the parts I already had in my parts bin. Just need to get a few little bits and bobs to get it finished. Going to leave the frame as it is and keep it in the rat-bike style.

Nearly there, just waiting for some springs for the forks to get this puppy finished. Have stripped down the forks and given them a thorough clean and lube. The rest of the kit is tried and tested stuff, XT M737/739 drivetrain. The cantis are Suntour XC Pedersons which work very well.

This was never intended to be boutique build, I have used bits I already had with the minimal of outlay. It's going to be fine ride.

I really like it! Wouldn't mind it in my shed!

I'd ride it on the trails tho, seems a shame not to

That's lush mate!!

Very nice Chris

Looks a bit better than a Rat Ride though

Hope to see you both out on the trails soon.

This is the finished build for now. May do something about getting the frame painted / powder coated / polished & lacquered sometime in the future. It is a fantastic ride. Very flickable and responsive. The Easton Elite frame gives a positive yet comfortable ride. Going to be a pleasure getting this one broken in.

Frame: Parkpre Pro Image 17" - Easton Elite Program Taperwall

Fork: Manitou 4 with "Wings Springs"

Headset: FSA Orbit XLII
Stem: Gen.E.Ric
Handlebar: Azonic double wall
Grips: Oury

Brakes: Suntour XC SE Pedersen
Brake Pads: Koolstop
Brake Cables: Whatever was at hand
Cantilever cable hangers: Suntour
Brake Levers: Cheapo Dia Compe copies

Shifters: XT M739 8 Speed
Front Derailleur: XT M739
Rear Derailleur: XT M739
Derailleur Cables: Whatever
Cassette: SRAM
Chain: SRAM
Cranks: Sugino
Crank Bolts: Shimano
Chainrings: Middleburn 42T outer, Middleburn hardcoat 32T middle, Sugino 22T granny
Chainring bolts: Steel
Bottom Bracket: UN71 68 x 107
Pedals: Modern

Hub Skewers: Shimano
Rims: Mavic X217
Hubs: Rear LX M565 - Front Pulstar
Nipples: 14G Brass
Spokes: Rear 14G - Front Marwi 15G
Tyres: Schwalbe Nobby Nic 2.1 Evo
Tubes: Cheap

Saddle: SDG Bel Air
Seatpost: Tahoma 27.0mm (OE)
Seatpost Binder: OE

Weight: Pretty dam light.