Rudge Aero build

[rudgeulsterman]

Bought this 1947 (possibly older) Rudge Aero frame on ebay stripped of its bottom bracket and a cup jammed inside for good measure. Almost lost faith in this project, but decided within a week to assemble it and get it ready.

I resisted the urge to respray the frame, but I grew to love the decals. I had originally bought the frame to build a 1930s path racer styled bike, but as I had picked up a Pashley Guv'nor at a decent price, I thought I would be a bit more creative with this latest Rudge project.





Here's how it is looking now, brand new parts and almost complete...









rudge aero by rudgeulsterman, on Flickr

 

[N/B]

The frame (and its patina) is quite sensational, but I'm not a fan of the wheelset myself. Saddle looks fab though

 

[NeilM]

Outstanding!

 

[bagpuss]

Lovely frame set .I saw one at the Thurcroft jumble last w/e .Managed to resist :shock:

 

[rudgeulsterman]

The wheelset was hand built on H Plus Son rims and have a slight V shape; they're based on Campag rims.

When you have a plan for a bike, then all of sudden and quickly you have to make decisions on the look. I wanted something modern with this build as my previous Rudge was an authentic 1930s restoration. I think I've managed keep some of the original period feel.

The saddle is a Team Pro Chrome in Olive. For whatever reason Brooks don't do bar tape that matches this olive colour, so will maybe get some grips in dark brown or plump leather .

http://www.brooksengland.com/catalogue- ... %26+100mm/

or

http://www.brooksengland.com/catalogue- ... her+Grips/ :?

But the grips will spoil that sweeping curve that leads your eye from the bars into the rest of the bike. Front lamp on it's way, remove rim transfers and that should be it.

Single speed, the ratio is just perfect - smooth and very fast. Much more enjoyable to ride than the Pashley Guv'nor.

Right then, next project!!