Thank you all for your responses to my original email.
Having received several emails advising me to leave my bike original and no t to sell it, I have decided to go with the majority opinion, as it matches m y own instincts and keep my bike, much as is, but to clean, oil and replace where necessary. Over time I plan to replace the newer parts as my bank balance allows. This leaves me with the following questions:
Cleaning:
· What should I best use to gently clean my bike? My first thought is warm water, washing up liquid and an old cloth/toothbrush.
· I have been advised to be careful when cleaning in the area of deca ls, any special advice here?
· Having cleaned I will need a protective coat to inhibit further rus t, beeswax seems the best option, do I need anything special? Any other suggestions?
Replacing parts:
· The consensus seems to be that my Simplex gears are a 1960's additi on. What might have been the original configuration/gearing on this bike?
· Assuming I were to replace the derailleur gears with more 'period' parts (1950's) what might be a good choice, for look/functionality/reliability
· I have been advised by several that a Brooks Saddle would be a good replacement for my current saddle; any particular model? What are my chance s of picking up a contemporary saddle, or should I just go for one that looks right?
· I would like to get lights that match the period of my bike at some point. What are the chances of picking up something that takes modern batteries? Any particular recommendations on make/models?
· The pump is not original, I can remember an aluminium one in my you th that broke, would this have been 1950's or a later addition, what am I looking for here?
· Are the Mud guards original do you think or a later addition?
· Can you see any other parts that look like new additions?
Pictures of and information about my bike as it stands may be found here:
http://www.mrtwig.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/
Iain Grant - London - England