Classic & Vintage - Chinese Bike

Hi all,

This is one of my first posts in this forum. I just moved to a new location and with me I dragged (to much objection from other family members) an chinese bicycle.

The bicycle is imported from China sometime in the 80s by my dad, there is definitly a lot to do on it but the bike is in good condition, and is a very special bike.

Should I go for trying to restore it? The problem is that nothing on the damn thing is standard, at least I don't think so, new hubs and wheels are probably needed and various of other stuff as well. I could post a picture of it here if you are that interested :)

Thanks!

Shigamoto:

If it is one of the old-style single speed Chinese bikes, I can help you get parts for it.

If it is in really nice shape, or if it has special sentimental value for you because it was your father's, then it might be worth restoring.

The value of the bike itself is probably not so great. You can still buy those old looking bikes in China.

Thank you Minke that's very kind of you to offer.

Right now everything seems in good condition on the bike, except for some rust on the chaincover which I will be able to remove.

I'm gonna try to restore, see how far I go haha :)

take care!

Daniel

Daniel:

Post a pic if you can.

I own three Chinese bicycles - and they are all in China! I want to send my favorite back to the states, but the cost is too much.

The old Chinese bicycles that were produced by the hundreds of millions were copies of the old rod-brake Raleigh. Some of the better models are simply gorgeous with exquisite green or black paint and fine gold detailing.

They are also typically accented with much brite chrome. Unfortunately, the steel under the chrome was/is of poor grade and the chrome itself not perfectly done, so the Chinese bikes are prone to rust.

By the way, I note that you are in Sweden. You can substitute parts from/for old Raleigh bicycles. They fit exactly - OR - like I mentioned, I can get parts for you, though it is a little complicated because I live in America, you live in Sweden, and the parts are in China.

Here is a photo of me, my Chinese bicycle, and my best friend at the Great Wall of China (I am the tall dorky looking American).

Ahh ok I will check out some Raleigh bikes. The bike I have is very similar to the one you have in the picture. I'm posting a pic below.

I ahve noticed as you were saying that the steel isn't exactly top quality, but the chrome seem ok in most places, however the wheels are gonna need som serious replacing or repairing but I'll look around here for parts first since there is quite a distance between us :)
Thanks for the offer!!

You don't happen to know how to get the chainguard off? I guess you have to break the chain, right? The whole thing is welded around it. Oh well I'll try :)

Take care!

Daniel