Jamie Swan wrote: I want to add a side-bar to this thread. I prefer bikes in their original paint even if the condition is not that hot.
Chuck Schmidt wrote: Jamie, there is a saying in collecting: "You cannot replace originality." A bike has to be _very_ far gone before I would ever consider restoration. Most of my old racing bikes have patina oozing out of their pores!
Chuck, Here is a picture of the jewel of my bike collection. I'm pretty sure that it is done oozing. I've pleaded with all the frame painters to sell me transfers but the selfish dogs will only sell them as part of a complete restoration. So I am seriously considering having it repainted but I cringe at the thought of destroying the patina. Even if I spend the money on the paint job I have a couple of other problems that I am having trouble resolving. Both crank arms broke simultaneously the last time I tried shifting while standing during a Cat 2 field sprint but I forgot that I didn't have Ergo 10.... and Campy USA won't even take my calls! Also, the heads have popped off my spokes because the wheels where laced 5 cross on high flange. I was just trying to be period correct! I'm at my wit's end!!! Oh, and also, does anyone know where I can get a pair of those rubber things that go on the brake levers?
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Jamie Swan Northport, N.Y.