How to find a really old racing bike

bm0p700f

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I have always fancied a really old racing bike for the early 20th century. It could be from 1900 to 1930 is. But how to find one. Condition is not so important as the whole thing would be a slow running project as I would have alot of learning to do regarding getting the spec right. The problem I find though is searching for it any help as all I can do is trawl ebay.
 
Re:

Might be worth joining the Veteran Cycling Club, I was a member years ago and though there were a fair few characters, to put it mildly, there was a lot of help around for this type of thing. A bit like us lot on here, everyone loves a 'newbie' they can show off their knowledge to! :lol:

Good luck, I think you'll have huge amounts of fun with this, and obviously, keep us informed when you find one!!
 
Its all out there but good early stuff is soaring. Something might turn up on Ebay but unless you are extremely lucky its generally overpriced. As above I'd recommend the V-CC and the CTC for connecting with like minded people. There are also specialist bicycle actions held by the TCA and also Brightwells have an auction in May, better places to look :)

Edit: as above!
 
Another thought. Its worth speaking to the National Cycle Museum in Llandrindod Wells or looking on their website, I know they sold off a few bikes a couple of years ago. They are pushed for space and sometimes end up with duplicate bikes.
 
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Keep your eyes peeled on ebay as there is alot of stuff turns up from house clearances or peoples estates after they have passed away, sadly. Gumtree also I have found some. Most recently was a conversation in the pub and ended up buying a 1936-37 MacLean and a 1956 Flying Scot. They are definitely out there. The V-CC is very helpful if you join. Happy hunting.
 
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Have you read Tim Moore's Gironimo? Although it makes a lot of comedy of his mechanical incompetence (something I can certainly relate to), it does include quite a lot of useful tips for finding and restoring very old bikes.

If you go to one of the proper vintage events (the real Eroica, Anjou Velo Vintage,...) you will find a few very old bikes for sale,
at a premium, mind. At Eroica 2013, there was even an FN Cardaan (rod drive) bike for sale, only ever seen one of those in a museum.

Good luck,

Johnny
 
Keep an eye out at your local tip or scrap yards I have come across all sorts of old bikes at these . Remember local sale rooms as well.Most of the people who go to these are rarely looking for old bikes . I saw one last week > It was a pre war ladies loop framed machine . Another source is farmers . You will be surprised what they may have as space is not an issue . Buying it will be another , as a farmer will drive a hard bargain .
Still fun trying to do a deal .
 
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