How to restore a classic bicycle
Restoring a classic bicycle is a process that requires dedication, patience and some basic mechanical knowledge. In addition, the choice of components, accessories and their combination implies a certain amount of good taste and style.
There are many reasons to carry out this work, for nostalgia or to enjoy that bike you always dreamed of in your childhood. In any case, working on its restoration will be a great experience and will allow you to create an exclusive vintage bike vintage unique and unrepeatable.
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Research your classic bike model
The first step will be to research the model and think about your restoration project. The goal should be to look for compatibility of the components with the original, as well as to be clear about what you want to do. You can choose to be faithful to the classic design by repairing or replacing its components with new ones. However, you can also keep the original look, but modernize it and improve its functionality.
Evaluation of the components of your classic bicycle
Evaluating the deteriorated components is the most important part of the whole procedure. Practically all of the pieces can be restored and repaired. Sometimes the damage is visible to the naked eye, sometimes it is necessary to test it or disassemble it to detect it.
In general, wear parts such as brakes, wheel covers or chains should be replaced. This is essential to ensure good braking and to improve wheel grip. The saddle, for example, is usually one of the elements that suffer the most with the passage of time. In general, it is recommended to incorporate add-ons that improve the functionality of the system.
Check the parts for rust and make sure they are not bent or damaged by knocks. Write down the measurements of all components you want to replace. The most important thing is to confirm that the new parts are compatible to ensure performance, but above all, safety.
Components for classic bicycles
- Connecting rods: They are one of the most valuable elements of the transmission. Cranks for keyed axles tend to be the most common on vintage and classic touring bikes.
- Tires: Tires are the points of support with the ground and are intended primarily for urban environments.
- Chain covers: They add a classic vintage touch. You can find them in steel and aluminum.
- Brakes: They are one of the essential components to ensure safety and avoid traffic accidents. There are many types of brakes, but v-brakes and calipers are the most commonly used in the urban environment.
- Mudguards: During the ride, they protect from water, dust or mud raised by the wheels.
- Handlebar: It is the complement of grip and balance to control the direction. Classic shapes include chrome, steel or aluminum handlebars. You should also check the steering and stem.
- Pedals: They are part of the transmission system and with them we drive the movement. Either a classic or a more robust pedal can be chosen.
- Wheels and rims: There are alternatives to acquire the classic measures, but you can also take advantage to change to a more current one.
- Bottom bracket: Rotates the pedals and transmits the force to the chain to move forward.
- Saddles: New versions of the classic sprung saddle are available to retain style and comfort. They are manufactured in leather and synthetic materials. The seat post connects the saddle to the seat tube on the frame.
Process for restoring a classic bicycle
Once the components have been checked, the complexity of the restoration will depend on the deterioration of your classic bike and the level of transformation you have planned.
Disassemble the bike
In general, it is recommended to disassemble it in its entirety, especially when there is a high presence of oxides. In this way, each part or component is cleaned and repaired separately and in depth. Likewise, it is very useful to take photographs of the whole process to facilitate subsequent assembly.
Removes rust
If the chrome plating of the parts is not too deteriorated, one option is to clean the surface rust. To do this, the surface must be sanded and surface. However, with grooming it sometimes loses its luster, so some people prefer chrome plating.
It is crucial that you consider the cost. Calculate the investment in the restoration of the part to see if it is more convenient to replace it directly.
Paint the picture
The treatment of the condition is very relevant at the esthetic level. If there is not too much rust, you can try to remove it locally. Sometimes, by applying specific cleaning products and a good hand drying, you obtain excellent results.
The first step will be to strip the painting to remove previous paint residues. Next, we add a coat of primer and then paint. It is important to always use items in spray formatto avoid the “brush stroke” effect or unsightly marks.
Also make sure to use a specific and quality specific. To give it a more vintage and authentic touch, before lacquering the last layer you can include classic stickers or decorative stickers. Once glued, lacquer the painting with varnish and let it dry.
Assemble the bike with new parts
The last and perhaps the most delicate phase of the process is to put all the pieces back together. Take up the tools again and assemble the whole system step by step. Incorporate the new components and assemble them with the classic parts. At this point, you can choose to add new accessories such as: saddlebags, baskets, helmets, grips, etc.
Renew, restore, create
The bicycle is a sustainable and healthy means of transportation that more and more people are choosing to move around the city. Investing in a quality one will undoubtedly be a good investment. If you need more information, Biciclasica.com is an online store specialized in urban cycling and classic bicycles.
We offer you a careful selection of vintage style urban bicycles, as well as components and spare parts for restoration. Likewise, we have a wide range of accessories to customize it. If you are a retro lover and want to restore a classic bike, don’t think twice! Visit our website and get to know our exclusive products.
