Have finally built up the Merckx that was given to me, as per the photos below.
I rode over to SSMM (I was not competing) on my other Merckx and someone saw it and asked if I wanted another? Of course I did! He said that he'd found it in a hedge with a note saying that it had been well used and to take it, use it and pass it on which he was now doing (I like to tell an Alice in Wonderland story where the frame was found in a hedge with a note saying 'Ride Me'). Anyway, frame was apparently my size and free if I could collect it.
I was unsure what I'd get and thought it could be a mid 70s gaspipe special. It turned out to be a sound but bit tatty Merckx 531c frame and forks! I've used some bits I had lying around plus got hold of other bits and pieces - the build has cost me £43, mainly the bottom bracket, headset and cables!
I've not made a fantastic job yet but I just wanted to get it up and running. Part of me says respray, another part says keep it authentic even though it has many blemishes on the paintwork. I think I'm going with the latter at the moment.
I rode over to SSMM (I was not competing) on my other Merckx and someone saw it and asked if I wanted another? Of course I did! He said that he'd found it in a hedge with a note saying that it had been well used and to take it, use it and pass it on which he was now doing (I like to tell an Alice in Wonderland story where the frame was found in a hedge with a note saying 'Ride Me'). Anyway, frame was apparently my size and free if I could collect it.
I was unsure what I'd get and thought it could be a mid 70s gaspipe special. It turned out to be a sound but bit tatty Merckx 531c frame and forks! I've used some bits I had lying around plus got hold of other bits and pieces - the build has cost me £43, mainly the bottom bracket, headset and cables!
I've not made a fantastic job yet but I just wanted to get it up and running. Part of me says respray, another part says keep it authentic even though it has many blemishes on the paintwork. I think I'm going with the latter at the moment.
love the story behind it too.
