i know nothing..---------pics now added---------------

[hamster]

Personally I'd go for bar-end shifters, they are easier than down-tube, have a friction option so you won't have compatibility problems, and look reasonably retro. They are around 30 quid new.

 

[legrandefromage]

if you dont like down tube shifting - try these:

http://search.ebay.co.uk/search/search. ... d+shifters

You can sometimes pick up period Campagnolo ones too, they're not too expensive.

For better brakes - sandpaper the original pads or buy new. You'll notice a big difference.

 

[dirtjumper_dmr]

ok cool, thanks for all the ideas people... still not sure what I'm gonna do with this but have basically narrowed it down to two options:

1. Keep it retro, get the paintwork restored, source some of the stuff suggested and use it as a proper road bike

2. Turn it into some sort of mutant, matt black, retro-inspired single speed stealth bike for carving up the city at night in the winter when I can't go to the jumps or park.... this seems infinately the more exiting option \m/

 

[cce]

surely your dad would gut you like a fish for option 2?

 

[RussellandKirk]

Right - sensible solution to produce a bike you will love

So long as the paint work is not too bad - just strip the bike of components and give it a very thorough clean and polish with high quality products.

Then rebuild with most of present components

But rebuild as fixed NOT single speed freewheel

Use existing chainset with the 42 ring and get a rear wheel built to suit the frame and chain line with a 15 or 16 sproket

I'd refit both brakes

 

[dirtjumper_dmr]

Erm well... the only specified condition was that I don't sell it although I think I'd probably run it past him first if I was going to do anything major. He is mellowing a bit in his latter years so he might be ok with it.

 

[RussellandKirk]

Build it into a good fixed and he'll want it back


All oldies should ride fixed

 

[twiddler]

'Uncomfortable' - that's 'cos it's got a real saddle on it - you'll get used to it !

 

[dirtjumper_dmr]

Actually the saddle ain't too bad... It's the riding position that sucks!!! It's just so far removed from what I'm used to, I mean I don't really 'sit' on the saddle on my DMR, it's more of a standing up bike... Speaking of that Brooks saddle, it's come up a treat with a bit of elbow grease, the brass bits are now brass coloured again and the leather itself is in amazing condition given it's age

Just out of interest, where would be the best place to get a respray done should I decide to go down the 'original' route, could I get the luggs done the same, and where could I get replica decals done?

Thanks for the continuing interest people....

 

[dirtjumper_dmr]

..........also, having just read another thread on here, can anyone tell me if the wheels on this are 27" or 700c? cheers, Rich