The British bike thread

[bikeworkshop]

This bike is a perfect example of practical functionality.
It's also one of the last bikes actually built by Dawes, rather then bought in from the far east.
Are the brake levers plastic- coated steel like the canti arms?
Zero style points, plenty of weight, but work well for cantis.

And the Rapidfire (Rapidfire Minus we used to call it) units are effective and reliable, unlike the gripshift appearing on many bikes around this time.
Gaspipe handlebar but microadjust seatpost.
Plastic bodied pedals but freehub rear wheel - and those hubs can do 10,000 miles plus.
Cup'n'cone bb, replaceable rings.
And this doesn't look like it's been a hundred miles from new

 

[Guinessisgoodforyou]

I have a 21" Dawes horizon frameset which is a cheaper model below the galaxy. Yours for free if you pick it up or post costs

 

[Guinessisgoodforyou]

 

[Guinessisgoodforyou]

I'm glad for your input as I was really wanting a project but as you say the paintwork is in good condition. I do have another project, a tiny Raleigh Chloe that really does need a paint job so I'll take your advice and leave as it is. The Chloe was only £25 and it wouldn't be a disaster if I made a mess.

The worst parts of the Dawes were the decals on the downtubes. Very scuffed. I've given it a quick degrease and I've taken off one side of the decals and already it looks much smarter. I will persevere with the other side then get replacements made in town. Not sure whether to replace them all? The on / off road I like but is it necessary ? They're still on at the moment.

I will just update it with matching grips and outer cables in turquoise to pick out the logo. And v-brakes as I'd feel safer with them.

You will need to change the brake levers if you fit V brakes. V brake levers have a different cable pull. The cantilever levers won't pull enough cable to work.
If you can supply clear photos and dimensions, there are people here that can reproduce your decals.