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[drewk1]

Hi

I've just aquired an old steel road bike to use as winter hack.

I don't think its anything special but I'm interested in what it is and any history.

Whats left of the badge:

I can post more photos if required.

Any info would be grately appreciated.

 

[biggs682]

looking at headbadge i would say an o'Brian challanger

 

[drewk1]

Yes that looks correct.

I've tried googling that and the only reference I get is to O'brien Challenger but I would guess thats not a Rory O'Brien bike?

Was just curious before I strip it and rebuild.

 

[biggs682]

Yes that looks correct.

I've tried googling that and the only reference I get is to O'brien Challenger but I would guess thats not a Rory O'Brien bike?

Was just curious before I strip it and rebuild.

no i dont think its a Rory O'Brien , but if i remember rightly O'Briens were a Coventry based shop

 

[David B]

I remember the model from when I was a kid. The O'Brien branded road bikes might have had some links to another Midland firm, Lew-Ways; they were based just outside Cannock on the A5 and did bikes - BMXs in particular - as well as kids' outdoor play equipment such as slides and swings.

David

 

[drewk1]

Thanks for the replies.

I've stripped a few parts off for cleaning and it has the following:
Weinmann 999 601 centre pull brakes
Weizmann levers
Huret rear mech
Birmalux alloy rims

All have cleaned and polished up quite nicely

New chain and cables and then after a bearing check and grease time for a ride

 

[iron legs]

It is an Edward O'Brien. Looks like one of the later Chinese made ones. For those old enough to remember, they were sold through mail order catalogues like Great Universal Stores along with the likes of Vindec. Used to see a lot of new shiney ones on Christmas day as they were tried out by their new owners up and down the street.

 

[drewk1]

Cleaned up and a slap of paint.

Just need to finish off and adjust.

Makes a nice winter hack.

Many thanks to everyone that replied.

 

[TGR]

HI,

The bike has cleaned up well, I am presuming the stem and seat post will be dropped a bit before use.

Richard

 

[drewk1]

Oh yes

It's just quickly bolted together.

Once I've sorted out the cables etc I'll set up the heights correctly.