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Classic & Vintage - Robin Hood ... What color paint?

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SlimAgainSoon

07-12-09, 05:42 AM

I have a Robin Hood Lenton Sport (circa ... not sure, but believe late '60s, maybe early '70s) that I am using as a utility bike and sometime commuter.

I am thinking of getting a local frame builder to make me a rack for the front. If so, he wants to weld on some pieces on the front fork to give the rack a firm attachment.

That means I would have to repaint the fork.

Is there anyway of running down a paint-color match for a 40-year-old Robin Hood? It is Lenton Green, I believe.

Esteban32696

07-12-09, 05:54 AM

I like to keep these old bikes original. Welding & painting will probably destroy its " classic bike "looks & value. Have you searched online for front racks/baskets that would suit you ??

cycleheimer

07-12-09, 07:23 AM

Check Nashbar, Performance, Niagara and every other place you can to find a front rack that will work without you having to weld it. As far as respraying, body shops basicly match colors for a living. Other than that, if you decide to weld, go to an auto parts store and match the fork color up to the colors on the auto touch-up spray can tops. After welding, why sweat it?

Mr IGH

07-12-09, 07:27 AM

I'd look for an aftermarket fork like a Tange that already has all the correct braze-ons. For me, old forks aren't worth the effort when a much stronger modern fork cost less than $50. I picked this one up off the 'bay for $20 shipped (I'm powdercoating everything this winter):

garage sale GT

07-12-09, 07:31 AM

I would assume you simply have to get the paint matched. It likely faded after all these years and won't be exactly the same as factory.

It should be pretty easy to match up a different fork, though.

SlimAgainSoon

07-12-09, 11:14 AM

Thanks for the tips.

I'll shop around for a clamp-on rack.

If not, getting a fork might be the way to go. I didn't know they were so easy to come by, or so cheap.

cycleheimer

07-12-09, 01:33 PM

You can also just get a handlebar bag with a frame that goes around the stem and over the handle bars.

brianinc-ville

07-12-09, 05:18 PM

North Road Bicycle (http://www.northroadbicycle.com/index.php) in Yanceyville, NC might be a good source for the rack (gotta call 'em, though -- the website doesn't list what they've got).

JBHoren

07-12-09, 05:21 PM

I have a Robin Hood Lenton Sport (circa ... not sure, but believe late '60s, maybe early '70s) that I am using as a utility bike and sometime commuter.

[snip]

Is there anyway of running down a paint-color match for a 40-year-old Robin Hood? It is Lenton Green, I believe.

Paint it Forest Green... and wear matching tights!