Ritchey Ultra Restoration

[Freewilly]

Hi there,

I'm new to the forum and would like some help.

I just scored a nice Ritchey Ultra on C-List, but it needs a lot of work in the parts department. I'll post pics soon.

Here are some details.
Frame: 16" White
Shifters: Sutour Thumbies 7 spd
Front D: XT
Rear D: Deore
Hubs: XT
Wheels: Ritchey

Here are my questions.

1. The Rear hub is pretty much shot. Are the old XT servicable. If I have to replace the rear hub, sould I just upgrade to 8 or 9 speed, knowing that I'll need to change the shifters, deraileur and chain as well.
2. Bottom Bracket is shot as well, can I fit a cartridge BB if so, what size.
3. I want to repaint the frame, is this a DIY or leave it to the pro's.
4. Where can i get decals
5. Also, how does this frame stack up against the P series. What are the major differences.

Any help would be appriciated.

Thanks,

Will.

 

[jango]

to answer some of your questions:

1. Yes, XT hubs are serviceable, best strip it down and replace the balls and cones.
2. Yes, measure your BB width either 68mm or 73mm with the same spindle length as your current one.
3. If you're asking then best leave it to the pros!
4. Gil_m on here.
5. No idea.......sorry

 

[Anthony]

Good place to find old material about Ritchey, plenty of Ultra stuff

http://www.oldmountainbikes.com/catalogs/

 

[Freewilly]

check it out

I'm finally got it stripped and repainted and added some new decals.

After 2 coats of primer, and 4 coats of blue, and some dead brain cells, it came out pretty good. Not glass smooth but pretty nice for a low budget job.

Here are some pics.

Any feedback is welcome.

 

[Freewilly]

some more pics

Some more pics of the finished product, I still need a couple of coats of clear before the parts go back on.

I'll keep you guys posted on it's 2nd maiden voyage.