It occurs to me after reading numerous responses to Atlanta Ann's dilemma that their are lots of crossroads to this old bike issue.
How do you decide if: 1. It is a truly a vintage frame that should simply be dusted and serviced and used or hung on the wall "as is". If you are very fortunate it will be your size and all that patina and components of the past will simply add to its value as you ride it. 2. If its condition is such that it needs restoring, In some instances, would it make sense to return it to the original factory (builder),or depending on the frame, to a competent restorer using the components that were originally installed. 3. Or rebuild a marginal frame for enjoyment, perhaps mixing old with new. What determines marginal?
In any event, none of us actually specified and ordered these magnificent art forms from European frame builders. Are we not simply curators charged with not screwing it up?
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