Ta dah! Meet "Big Red". (So called by its previous owner beacause it is big.....and it is red. The name just stuck).
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Refurb now complete, except for the chrome toestraps I have on order and am getting bored waiting for. I've spent ages stripping it down and cleaning it, and I've fitted various new chrome bits and miscellaneous parts. I then cheated and used my LBS for the big stuff. Striking Bikes have now fitted new flat bars, shifters and brake levers, along with a new seat post and a 9 speed chain and cassette. They had already previously re-built the rear wheel with extra strong spokes. All the major componentry is now completely inter-changeable with my Ridgeback No.1 bike now, even down to an identical computer programmed for the same wheels/tyre size.
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I've also got new Schwalbe Marathon Plus tyres (700x28) and Slime inner tubes on it.
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All in all I've spent over £300 on the refurb, having bought the thing for £200 in the first place. Could have bought a new bike for less, but then I'd have had to make that one perfect too. I just liked the idea of rescuing a faithful but dull old bike that was languishing unloved in the garage- and giving it a whole new lease of life.
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Not bad for a 17 year old bike, I reckon. Maiden voyage due tomorrow. can't wait. Cheers,
Donger.