Dear Tony:
Very snazzy bike, I applaud you sir. Did the drillium bits come with the original package or did you get them for this frame? I'd be afraid to ride the swiss cheese big ring, but it's spectacular. Love the seatpost too, is there a supply source for them?
Tom Adams
Manhattan, KS USA
From: Anthony Taylor <ajft1942@yahoo.com> Subject: [CR] 1970 hetchins Keyhole refurbishment To: Classicrendezvous@bikelist.org Date: Friday, May 21, 2010, 8:42 AM
All,
With all the traffic about frame refinishers lately, I thought I would share some pictures of my latest project.
It is a 1970 Hetchins Keyhole model. I bought it on ebay about a year ago. It came from California. With the unique paint scheme, I had hoped to be able to ride it as-is, but when I got it I realised that was not going to be the case. I believe that the bike is original, because all the small parts appeared not to have been touched, but I have no way of proving it. However, my plan was to rebuild it with the compnents it came with.
I stripped it down to the last fastener, and cleaned, polished, lubede and rebuilt all the components. I researched refinishers, and settled on Franklin Frame in Ohio. I chose the color scheme to compliment the compnents, and because I thought it was appropriate to the period.
I must say, I could not be happer with the outcome. I finished it last week, and haven't had a chance to ride it yet. Can't wait!
Pictures at http://www.flickr.com/
My next project is a 1955 Hetchins EC refurbishment.
I welcome your comments or questions.
Tony Taylor
Manchester NH