1997 Marin Bear Valley SE (Pic Heavy)

[L7NCH]

Hi everyone,
I'm new here and would like to share my winter project, its a 1997 Marin Bear Valley SE (No suspension).
I've only really been into bikes over the last year or so, mainly road cycling. Although I really like the simplicity of an older bike. I appreciate the Bear Valley SE was at the lower end of the Marin range, therefore do not intend on spending much the refurbish the bike; £50. the bike itself cost me £10. I plan on using the bike for work when finished or selling it.
Here are a few pics of the bike when I picked it up...




I believe all parts apart from the rear tyre are original!! I intend to keep the bike as original as possible.

Here is the catalogue page from the Marin archive:


Regards, Callum

 

[kingbling]

Re: 1997 Marin Bear Valley SE

Hi and welcome a good first project all the best with it.

 

[L7NCH]

Re: 1997 Marin Bear Valley SE

More pics of the condition when collected...

 

[tintin40]

Re: 1997 Marin Bear Valley SE

that's a big project. needs plenty TLC. Will be worth it. The ad looks a first rate mtb

 

[jimo746]

Re:

Hopefully all it needs is a good clean and some new cables, solid bikes these Bear Valleys, underrated if you ask me.

 

[L7NCH]

Re: 1997 Marin Bear Valley SE

The bike was fully stripped down and assessed at weekend, only just took photos today.
- 4x spokes broken on rear wheel drive side
- Rear bearings binding
- Frame in 'ok' condition
- Pads down to the bone
- Tyres cracked
- All cables are shot
- Middle chainring has broken teeth
- Chain had to be cut off
- Seat ripped
- Bottom bracket rusted

Here are pics of the frame n wheels cleaned up..


Quite scratched on top tube.




Will be fully polished before being built back up

Thanks Cal

 

[L7NCH]

Re: Re:

Hopefully all it needs is a good clean and some new cables, solid bikes these Bear Valleys, underrated if you ask me.

Bit more than cables , but i am quite particular lol

 

[L7NCH]

Re: 1997 Marin Bear Valley SE

Derailleurs in very poor condition!!

Some pics before a massive clean...




Thanks, Cal

 

[L7NCH]

Re: 1997 Marin Bear Valley SE

The saddle has been passed over to my dad to be re-trimmed, its the original saddle so don't want to throw it...

Before:




Finished pics to follow...

Thanks, Cal

 

[Paul R]

nice to have something you can really make a difference on