One of the nice things about dealing with old bikes is the lack of a predefined answer to this; the fact that you are asking the question underscores that. People often cite the example of the importance of original finish in antique furniture, and suggest that it is a model for us. It isn't. And I'm glad of it.
The decision as to what makes the most sense for a particular bike is an intellectual challenge--and an exercise in taste--that I enjoy very much and would be reluctant to abandon. I think that the answer to your question depends on the bike, its significance, and what you intend to do with it. For example: my most recent Hetchins is significant, to a large degree, because of its originality. It is probably the most nearly original early-70s Hetchins one could find. It has the chain and (probably) freewheel installed in London; it would make no sense to replace them, even though I would like somewhat lower gearing. Believe it or not, it came with original tires, but, of course, those were beyond use so I replaced them. On the other hand, my favorite combination is a Sram PC48 chain and a Shimano UG or HG freewheel. Quiet, and shifts smoothly. I have them on many of my bikes. The PC48 works fine with Regina and Suntour freewheels, too.
I think that it's natural to replace expendable original parts with modern ones, and this is part of the ordinary evolution of any working bike. My Keyhole even has Kool-stop Continental brake pads and neoprene bar tape, as well as the Sram chain and Shimano freewheel. It doesn't detract from the bike, in my opinion, unless, of course, it's to be a show bike. But the Keyhole is a favorite rider, and its condition is long past any such pretensions.
Steve Maas (who really should stop this and get some sleep in) Long Beach, California
Emanuel Lowi wrote:
> For those of you (like me) who enjoy riding your 1960s-70s classics frequently, what are your opinions about using period-correct vintage chains (Regina Everest etc.) vs. more modern chains like bushingless SRAM? And why? If you use the newer chains, what do you recommend for old-style 5 or 6 speed freewheels.
>
> Emanuel Lowi
> Montreal, Quebec
>
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