hello all,
ive enlisted a few more of my mates into bikes and am looking to set them up with something of a classic manner. they have left me with no real budget and id like something that is in good clean condition as you know who will have to do the spannering and maintenace. i thought id ask here first....
first off -
i need a small (50/51cm seat x 51/52cm top c-c ) road bike. it just has to look good, be reasonable in weight and be in generally good condition and ready to ride. clincher tires please. i kinda lean towards the 80's as of course ill be the mechanic and these parts will be cheaper to source, maintain and run or replace. even though NYC is flat, my mates waistline isn't so a little less than race gearing is preferred. he grew up around the corner from Raleigh in England so there is a little sentiment for that British marque but Japan is cool in my books and im looking for bang for bucks. up to $200 shipped
and secondly
i need a set of wheels for a second mates ride to get it rolling. 27" x 1 1/4 clincher rims please. 5 or 6 speed freewheel attached preffered. bonus if it has tires and tubes. relatively true and round and in good shape (id prefer not to reapck and grease them). dont care for names or labels - prefer reliable over race light. cheap is good. depending on whats offered up to $60 shipped
so if you have anything that suits and have pic/s send them down with a price. im not a very good haggler but am quick to say yes or no and can pay with a postal money order or paypal promptly. to calculate the cost of shipping (i prefer all prices with shipping included) my zip code is 10031. i need to show them the pics as they are paying for it and are not that schooled in what a well made bike is really worth - my summer project has begun.
these are for good friends who i have assured that there is more fun being on a bike at dawn than stumbling out of an after hours joint, alone and in need of a kebab. both are failed actors who can hardly get a part in their hair let alone in a film or play but theyre my mates and id like to offer them something cool in their lives.
their faith in my conviction or persuasion isnt that strong hence the small amount they are willing to pay. i can see them stumbling out of after hours joints and then heading off for a few laps in the park before looking for a suitable tree to sleep under but if fate has it and they realise the beauty of it all ill be back for a deRosa and a hetchins for them. and yes..... they were sober when they gave me the go-ahead.... till then....
ciao, ben (a tamed and maturing wildman?) kamen - NYC