Uncle Monty
Retrobike Rider
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I appear to have purchased an old bike. Older than me....
So, it is very original, and has progressed through its life with its first owner from new bike, maybe used for club riding, certainly used for touring and holidays, perhaps daily transport until it just became another old bike in the shed, probably used for going to the shop or down the allotment. Now it has passed on to me to look after for a while.
Anyway, enough waffle- in other words I ride retro MTB, know nothing about road bikes and bought it off ebay. Its covered in gook, many years of an oil can on the chain and living in an old shed. So, where to start- it is 1953/1954. Are fastenings usualy AF or Whitworth? Cotter pins- whats that all about and where do I get new ones? I am thinking a gradual clean up, soapy water on the frame, probably car bodywork shampoo. Degrease all the drivetrain, then take stock. Tyres, rims, pads, spokes are all shot. Do I restore what is there or clad it in vintage Campagnolo? Hopefully I can get this ressurected over the winter and back out on the road again next year.
So, it is very original, and has progressed through its life with its first owner from new bike, maybe used for club riding, certainly used for touring and holidays, perhaps daily transport until it just became another old bike in the shed, probably used for going to the shop or down the allotment. Now it has passed on to me to look after for a while.
Anyway, enough waffle- in other words I ride retro MTB, know nothing about road bikes and bought it off ebay. Its covered in gook, many years of an oil can on the chain and living in an old shed. So, where to start- it is 1953/1954. Are fastenings usualy AF or Whitworth? Cotter pins- whats that all about and where do I get new ones? I am thinking a gradual clean up, soapy water on the frame, probably car bodywork shampoo. Degrease all the drivetrain, then take stock. Tyres, rims, pads, spokes are all shot. Do I restore what is there or clad it in vintage Campagnolo? Hopefully I can get this ressurected over the winter and back out on the road again next year.
