pathfinder build

[scarygerbil]

For years i have drooled over images of path racers and wanted one but didn't like the idea of a single gear. So with this in mind i thought i would build one myself trying to keep the budget under £100.
I thought i would share the build with you kind people as I know you like to share in a mans triumphs and hair loss (not much left but ho hum). So here goes
First the frame a Rudge Pathfinder (name suits) bought for £12.50

The donor bike with hub brakes and rdx 5 speed cost £21.01

Finally a nice period Lepper saddle bought from the very nice man when i picked up the frame for £10

So far the cost is £41.50. I won't count any parts in my spares box.
Next is a strip down of the Dawes and a dry fit of all parts to see what's needed will keep you updated if anyone is interested.
Disclaimer: the garden is a mess do to ongoing work and a future shed installation.

 

[biggs682]

@scarygerbil i keep looking for a Coventry Rudge but so far i have struggled to find one at a fair cost

your build looks like it could be fun keep them coming

 

[raleighnut]

That was kind of my thinking when I built this,

But then I stuck a rack on it.

 

[scarygerbil]

just tried fitting the parts to the frame. i do need to get better brake levers and i'm unsure about the handle bars.
the cables are too long so need to try and get shorter ones, the only thing i can find is a slurf cable set has anyone used these?

 

[Drago]

You need inverted North Road bars.

 

[Cycleops]

You can cut cables and housings you know. Looks like your head is going to be in front of the stem almost with those bars.
Hope those purple polka dot trousers aren't yours.

 

[scarygerbil]

You can cut cables and housings you know. Looks like your head is going to be in front of the stem almost with those bars.
Hope those purple polka dot trousers aren't yours.

because these cables have the nodules at both ends you cant adjust the length

 

[biggs682]

because these cables have the nodules at both ends you cant adjust the length

@Tony Raynor had an idea a while back , along the lines of chopping a nodule of and drilling a hole through it and then soldering it at the length required.

 

[scarygerbil]

i havhttp://www.ebay.com.au/itm/SLURF-Brake-Cable-SUP-SK99zil-compl-for-drum-brake-self-service-package-457982/272637579450?_trksid=p2047675.c100011.m1850&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140107090050%26meid%3D2b82efea15d54d389ed6909cfbd71e36%26pid%3D100011%26rk%3D6%26rkt%3D12%26sd%3D272339593628e found these they look like you can adjust the length so might give them a try

 

[porteous]

Looks like you have the original wheels with rear 4 speed hub and dyno hub on the front. Probably about a 1956 frame.

Standard brake cables are still cheap and lots on e-bay, just trim the outer sleeve and inner cable to the length you want at the brake end.

I have rebuilt four of these, they are addictive and a very nice ride. Good luck with the rebuild.

 

[scarygerbil]

the wheels came from a dawes graduate and are a five speed rear both hub brake. I know its not period correct but i wanted something fun with a modern twist

 

[porteous]

Oops; that will teach me to look more closely. You are giving a nice classic frame a new lease of life, and that's what matters.

 

[scarygerbil]

just a quick update, got some new bars £16 and other bits and pieces £39.58
total cost so far £97,08

not sure about the brakes but once its cabled up i will see

 

[ChrisEyles]

Those bars are spot on! Looking good

 

[scarygerbil]

the bike is finally finished short of a bit of fettling.

had a couple of rides and it smooth and true. Just got to decide if i repaint it during the winter or leave it as a rat rod