Hello, I've been a casual browser of this list for several months, but am only now getting around to posting. I am hoping that some kind soul can shed some light on the Benotto I just purchased. I posted a few pics here (apologies in advance for the white-hot flash):
http://s3.photobucket.com/
I am wondering about the following:
1) How does one determine the age of this bike with any accuracy? I'm told it's from the 1940's, but I'd like to confirm that, perhaps with a bit more precision. There is a stamp near the top of the seat tube that appears to read 339550, but I don't know how to interpret that. I emailed Benotto and they didn't either.
2) Which parts are probably not original to it? I know the Fiamme reds and Wolbers are far too new for it, but which rims and tires would likely have come with it? I see a Campy logo on the hubs but nothing on the pedals. Maybe the pedals have been replaced? Anything else stick out as not right?
3) Are there any sprays or compounds to help protect brittle paint? The frame is in pretty good condition. That I can wax. But the paint on the fenders/mudguards scares me. It is fine in some places and flaky in others. I don't want to have them repainted and I fear that manually waxing them could damage certain areas. Any alternatives to leaving them off the bike altogether when I want to take it for a ride?
Thanks in advance, -kevin
Kevin Moran Bloomington(/Breaking Away country), IN US
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