Fred,
In your particular case I wouls suggest one of two approaches. Either have it clear coated as it is, which will stop the ageing process where it is, or hace it really lightly wet sanded before clear coating, which might remove some of the yellowing original clear. Then clear coat with Imron and finish with a light rub out to kill some of the Imron gloss.
If you let it be as is, it will continue to deteriorate until the clear is gone and the paint and decals are exposed. From there, it just keeps going.
Brian Baylis
La Mesa, CA USA
Okay, another restoration question. I have a 1972 Cinelli SC in the light rose or "gold" color paint. Looking at photos of the bike when first purchased and now, the clear coat seems to have yellowed a little over the years. Instead of being almost gold, it's more like a rose color. My question is, is there a safe way to remove the clear coat without damaging the original paint or decals? Or is it better to just leave it as is and consider the yellowing as patina". As much as I would like to have the bike in like new condition, I feel it's too valuable to risk any damage to it's original finish. The original paint is fairly thin and I don't know if it could be faithfully replicated. Aside from the yellowing, the paint is without scratches and all decals are perfect. Either way, I still love the bike and ride it a lot. I don't think anything rides quite like an old Cinelli.
Fred Durrette
Summerville, SC