Thanks for the kind words folks.
It has not got dirty yet so is pretty easy to keep clean
The polished look is great but it does require ongoing work unlike a paint job, as the al does oxidise and becomes dull.
I stripped the paint with nitromores and once it was the bare frame cleaned it first with brillo pads then scotchbrite pads and finally very fine wire wool to get the surface as smooth as poss.
Then I used brasso and lots of buffing- repeat until happy with the shine. Kind of zen like approach is needed esp. in the nooks and cranies. Kaiser (the master buffer) then used a special chemical that protects the al shine, I used a car wax but this will wash/wear away and a good buff will be needed periodically- well worth the effort IMHO.
Decals I got from dave h and another member whoes name escapes me
to much wine- however I really need period correct ones o the retro bike member Gil_m will be called into action, he will sort you out there.
You have th makings of a great bike and even on the short ride I have been on I think a bit of front bounce will be very welcome- This frame is light and responsive but pretty unforgiving esp. as I am used to steel machines.
Look forward to your progress boothy
