When I get a new to me bike, one of the first things I do is a quick and dirty ride around the block just to see what works and what doesn't. Next thing up is usually a complete tear down, cleaning and parts inspection.
Most of the bikes I buy are in need of TLC, some are worse than others. One thing I enjoy doing is bringing old dull parts back to life, in most cases, especially with the old heavy chrome a bit of cleaning and polishing is all it needs. These are the brakes off of the AMF Hercules that I am rebuilding for my sister to ride. The brakes themselves are fine, they just need new pads and cables. It is amazing how much nicer they look.
The AMF Hercules is progressing, I am almost done with the clean up of the parts, and have started reassembling things. Repacked the headset and the bottom bracket yesterday.
On another note: The Staiger has gone to live with my DD in Western Massachusetts as a commuter bike, if all goes well it will travel with her to Keene, NH as she returns to grad school.
Aaron
7 comments:
Fantastic! I am inspired by your ability to see the potential and your diligence to achieve it.
Thanks! I always see the potential...achieving it is a whole 'nother issue. LOL
I have at least 5 project bikes hanging around waiting on parts and decisions.
Aaron
aaron,
all your bikes seem very practical, the way they ought to be!
good luck with the projects!
peace :)
Aaron, what's the secret to cleaning that chrome brake? I'm wondering if any of my bikes have similar features that could be made so shiny!
Chandra...I am a practical person for the most part. I seldom buy into the latest and greatest if I have something that already works for me.
Mike I use a variety of different methods depending on the component and the metal used to fabricate it. On the chrome steel brakes in the picture I used a plastic scrub pad with a bit of very dilute Simple Green to cut through the grease, then use Turtle Wax Chrome polish to finish up. I sometimes use Simichrome but that is mainly for aluminum alloy parts. I will try and do a post shortly about the various techniques and processes I use.
Aaron
Another thing I do is completely disassemble things so I can get into the nooks and crannies. Most bicycles are not extremely complicated and can (to me) be easily taken down to component parts and then rebuilt. I also take advantage of the fact the parts are apart to replace worn bushings, fiber washers, and add proper lubricants as necessary.
I actually enjoy working on my bikes, especially if the weather is a bit ugly for riding.
Aaron
I love to pay a daily visit to your blog and see what's up. It's encouraging to see someone else with the old bicycle "sickness". I also enjoy working on my old bikes, It is a great way to "zen" out and resurrect beautiful, formaly neglected machines to fuss and dote over. Keep up the good work!
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