mpjbrennan
Retro Newbie
Before
After
Introducing my 1962-ish Freddie Grubb before and after restoration. Most of the original equipment only required a good clean before refitting, but some components had to be replaced. Current spec is as follows:
Re-used components
Frame - Holdsworth "Freddie Grubb" (Reynolds 531, rustproofed by special process, whatever that was) FN 11233
Brakes - Weinmann "Vainqueur" centre pull (610 front, 750 rear)
Brake levers - Weinmann (perished hoods removed)
Stem - GB (quill)
Cranks - Solida
Chainring - DLRA Force (47T)
Derailleur - Campagnolo "Gran Sport"
Shifter - Campagnolo
Wheels - I have two sets, both based on Weinmann 27 x 1.25 rims. One set has Campagnolo QR large flange hubs; the other has a Sachs front hub and a Maillard rear hub
New components
Saddle - Brooks "Swift" (with matching toolbag)
Seat post - Push
Tyres - Continental "Gatorskins"
Pedals - MKS "Sylvan"
Headset - Stronglight
Toeclips and straps - Zefal "Christophe"
Handlebar - On-One "Midge"
Freewheel - SJS "Elan" 14-24
The freewheel, pedal and toeclip replacements were purely for practical reasons:
(a) the existing 16-20 freewheel was no good for the hills in our locality.
(b) the original pedals had no maker's mark, and one was part-seized.
(c) I have bigger feet than the previous owner!
The Midge handlebar was a whim - I like old-style randonneur bars and find them more comfortable. I have retained the original Gerry Burgess bar however.
The frame was resprayed by Bob Jackson Cycles of Leeds, and new decals were supplied by H Lloyd of Penrith. I must say I had excellent service from both these suppliers.
Since rebuilding the bike I have ridden 270 miles on it - would have been more but for the weather. It's a beautifully smooth ride, and I'm looking forward to the longer days and better weather to get the most out of it.
Patrick
