Kactus

I'm 5'-10" and prefer a 57cm-58cm (C-T) frame.

jeirvine 

You'd be surprised. I bet there are a few members here who could easily hook you up, and who'd be interested in this bike in this size. If you are really just looking for a nice bike to ride, and not this particular (and very rare) bike, I'd say trade it for something in your size, and needing a lot less work.

jetboy 

if you are looking for this exact frame in your size, there was a guy selling a 58cm on CL in the sunset district of SF (bike parts section). He wanted quite a bit and the paint was no better than yours... so it had sat for a month or so. of course, now that I look, its gone. so maybe he sold it or maybe hes just pausing/rethinking. might again appear at any time.

anyway, the 58cm would fit you much better and maybe hes selling because its too small?? could be an instant trade for your size.

bit of a longshot but its such a rare frame that you got to go for any shot you might have, no matter how long.

embankmentlb

Are the Looks not measured center to center? I would think a person 5'10" would fit a 56 c to c.

riciiko

No, I'll be doing it this Sunday just to get a feel of what I have. But I did try remove the seatpost without luck though I have yet to actually put "effort" into it.

I'll let you know within this month if you're willing to wait. But just out of curiosity, would you have photos of what you'd be willing to trade for? I'm not actually in the bay area but in the Central Valley, I normally tell people I'm from SF just to get around explaining that I'm from a funny named town that translate to Bathrooms in Spanish (You can figure out where I am residing temporarily by that hint.)

I'll only be in the states for a few months, after that I'll be in Japan again for a few more but I'll be moving to Thailand/Vietnam shortly thereafter. Either way I would love to take a bicycle back to Tokyo since it's only about 130 USD.


Here in the US, I suppose bicycles are more for leisure whereas in most parts of Asia/Europe they are a primary means of getting around. So what you're saying is really kind of causing me to rethink what I originally have planned. As I mentioned before I have options, but this bicycle isn't just something I would ride once in a while, so your words have weight.

The bicycle doesn't have tires nor do I have any at the moment, but I compensated for that by inserting something between the rims and the ground. I can stand perfectly over the top tube with it grazing my manhood. I may just get by with tires on...maybe. In all honesty, this was the same effect as I had with my Allez Comp. Perhaps my previous bicycle was too "high" as well? I mean, when I would come to a complete stop I would lean a bit out with my leg to somewhat catch myself but it was never a problem. The only discomfort I ever had then were in my wrists. I don't recall the size of my previous road bike either, if only I had the receipt...

I suppose its that idea of owning a novelty bicycle older than me that would make me want to fix it just to see what it would look like in its pristine condition. I would love to hear the story of how my uncle acquired this bicycle...I look forward to asking him.


Thank you all for the time you've put in to replying and giving me quite insightful advice, I really do appreciate it =]

Ultimately the design that I am aiming for, or better yet what I find pleasing regarding bicycles is that unique aesthetic touch and attention to detail of before. In all honesty I was planning on buying a Pashley Clubman Country until I stumbled across this forum and realized how overpriced and silly it would be to get it. Either way, I find it quite charming and be willing to build one (either for me or my fiancee.)





Vs what I used to ride....



Funny thing is, I left it outside interlocked with my fiancees bicycle to a fence for only 2 days and when we were walking back from the station we realized they were gone. In that moment, I wasn't even emotionally bothered by it, I felt like it was an opportunity to get something with heart. I kind of felt like that Specialized was too sleek, too perfect, too clean for my personal taste. I don't even recall why I acquired it in the first place, well that was my 1,000 dollar + lesson I could only hope that whomever stole my bicycle, whether it may be the city or a person, may they have many miles of fun with it.

Sorry for the long post! I may have taken a bit too much modafinil this morning lol

riciiko

I just checked CL and I didn't find it, perhaps some lucky guy got it or maybe he just gave up.

But I did come across this bicycle shop in the bay area, would you know anything about them?

GALAXY BIKES | Custom Bicycles, Restoration, and Repair

TimmyT 

This frame is exactly my size, and I'm trying to look away from another project.

FWIW, I am 6'2" with long legs, so I doubt that this fits the OP.

jetboy 

I have seen their adverts but not a bike in person. in all honesty- as far as $ and time is concerned, it would probably be better for you to just sell that bike and buy one that works in your size. that bike will be a labor of love for someone who REALLY must have that particular bike (they are out there) - not because its a super stellar bike (even if it is) but because of its history and rarity.

If it was 60cm i'd be hardcore trying to get you to trade/sell it (to me!). at 62cm I am able to give more more objective advice, as while I could ride it, it would not feel perfect. And for the money and time to restore that bike, you want it to feel perfect once you are done.

riciiko

I look forward to going back to Japan, I was considered tall there....

What's a bicycle in this state worth? Of course I'd like to hear from multiple users =]

I can take more photos throughout the week.

jetboy 

here is a comp for you: same bike but restored and ready to ride: asking was $1000 - probably sold for somewhat less but who knows. . It was commented on during the sale on this forum. But you can imagine, your bike will be far far less in the state its in.

56cm LOOK Equipe Bernard Hinault *Price Reduced* For Sale

Lascauxcaveman 

My WAG for this bike in this condition would be around $300 on an eBay auction. It's a fairly special bike, but the condition of the paint takes it way down. Better pix with some more reassuring news about the frame and condition of components may bring that up a bit, but your initial photos aren't very promising.

I'd love to have this bike (it's even my size) but I wouldn't offer as much as you could get on eBay; like most people who post in this subforum, I'm a cheapskate and have a couple too many projects already

jetboy 

hey, the 58cm frame in SF is back.

Rare 57-58cm Look "La Vie Claire" Reynolds 753r Team Replica Frameset

he was at $500 and has gone to $400 and I suspect he will keep dropping it as people continue not to buy as its a frame that is special in many ways, but one of the largest factors is the paint. If the paint is trashed then the value plummets. BUT it might be worth giving him an email and see if hes selling because its too small for him. perhaps he would be open to a trade for yours.

This is killing me just so you know, as his is slightly too small, and yours is slightly too big. if either were perfect I'd be saying money be damned and trying to make a deal.

Dave Cutter

+1 Careful, thorough, cleaning of the painted surfaces will make a huge difference. Then replacing and repacking the bearings, and polishing/buffing the aluminum shiny parts will put you well on your way to enjoying a rare find.

Keeping reading in C&V.

riciiko

Hey jetboy,


I appreciate it!

I sent the individual a message, but as you mentioned, his frame's paint job is pretty bad lol. But mine is pretty bad in itself so it's something to consider for him/her as well.

Sorry for not having put photos up as I mentioned before. I'm really still thinking about what to do with the bicycle. I even thought about, what if I just hold onto the frame, strip the parts, use them for my own bike in the future and give the frame to my son/daughter assuming they are tall enough lol.

In fact, I don't have most of the specialty tools for bicycles in order to take this bike apart which is a shame. But, It seems that the both the seat post and stem are quite jammed. I have yet to try anything other than my hands though in fear that I may damage/scratch the bicycle.

I honestly need a road bike for the next few months here in the states, it's kind of driving me nuts not riding a bicycle. Keeping in mind in Japan I was riding one everyday.


I would really like to know frame would suit me best as well, I can't recall what my previous bicycle was. I am 181~182cm's tall, but you guys don't necessarily go by your height do you regarding bike sizing? You go with what "fits" you best / is most comfortable I'm assuming which would take precedence over sizing related to your height.

Appreciate all the help guys =]

jetboy 

hey, an inmate here pointed out that the CL bike that I posted is not a 57 but actually a 59cm - from the serial number. So I am heading over there on friday to check it out!

as for your bike: Yes, if the seat post and quill are not moving by hand, then you are in for some work. its quite possible you will need to destroy both of them to get them out. its pretty common for a bike that was left out like yours- aluminum corrodes and effectively expands - permanently fixing itself in there. Getting it out is a lot of work and if you don't have the tools /knowledge/patience to learn then its going to cost you quite a bit to have someone else do it.

If it has sentimental value i'd suggest just keeping it (put it inside!!.. and maybe give it a bath in w-d40) and coming back to it in 5 or 10 years and seeing if you have the time and knowledge to take the project on (or the money to pay someone else). Otherwise i'd sell it as is to someone who can handle the project. and you are correct: do not try and strip it down yourself as you could damage it. out of the 500 made I am not sure how many were 62cm! So in the name of tall guys everywhere, please don't break it!

-josh

PS: The 59cm on CL is too large for the seller (one reason for the sale), so your 62cm would not be a viable trade. not sure if he got back to you on that.

jetboy 

as for sizing - its very individual in the end. since you are near 6' you could ride your 62cm- but I think the real issue is the amount of work that will need done before that bike is ridable. Go get an ironman! its just a good a bike and they sold like hotcakes so there are many to choose from in whatever size you need.

ballpark estimate would be somewhere between 57-59 for you. could go lower or higher depending upon body type and .. just how you like to fit a bike.

Toona

[QUOTE=riciiko;18201836]Hello all~

I picked up this bicycle for free that was left outside at my uncles

QUOTE]

I strongly felt the need to respond to this thread. Read my true story below:


My one friend wheeled a bike into my apartment one day back in 2001. I asked him where he got it and he told me he had just spent the night at Andy's, a friend of ours, and that Andy told him he could have the bike because it was left to rot on his property for months. I looked over the bike, and it looked the part...weathered, like nothing of value...like all the other bikes you would find in poor condition, abandoned in alleys, or alongside the RR tracks.

*edit note*also I did not recognize or respect the bike manufacturer name, which turned out to be a "Pacific" brand label. Had it been a Hutch, Haro, Diamondback, mongoose or any name I actually recognized I may have been concerned that it was stolen or abandoned by someone who would be looking for it and would have advised my friend to take it to the police station.....just like I would have done. But, again,it looked like a cheap big box store bike, meant to be bought and abused by kids not mature or responsible enough to warrant spending 100's of dollars on a BMX for. These type of bikes are ridden hard, abused to the max and like spent cartridges or fuel rods simply discarded and account for those garbage bikes you would find heaped ago piles at the local junkyard or being sold for pennies at the local swap shop......which venue I did sell it to....so continue to read my story.*

......I made him an offer for the bike. Then I sold it for $12 a short time later at a Buy/Sell/Trade store. Giving them my ID Drivers License, ect.

Weeks passed and me and the same friend were walking and arrived at "The Culvert"...a old PRR (Pennsylvania Rail Road) underpass in our town where the trains would pass over. And there we saw a old Fuji, in pristine condition just lying on the ground. It was silver and black...just like the LA Raiders colors. And when I picked it up I noticed that both tires, very nice racing tires, were flat.

I instantly deduced that this was a stolen bike. Probably taken out of a garage where it was stored with flat tires, and abandoned by the Cretin that stole it. So being the honest guy that I am I wheeled it to the police station, where I filled out a report.

While I filled out the report the cop came back and said "You are under arrest for receiving stolen property, and theft by deception". Not for the Fuji but for the bike that I had bought off of my friend and sold weeks earlier.

This is a true story and it has ramifications to this day.

When I appeared in court I was fully ready to rat my friend out. I prided myself on having NO criminal record. And I was very angry that my record was in jeopardy. Besides my apartment complex had video surveillance that would have shown my friend wheeling the bike in weeks earlier.

But the PD said "Just plead 'No Contest'". Even after I adamantly proclaimed my innocence and told him the same story I tell you here. He actually acted like he didn't want to go to trial. And he said a "No Contest" was not a guilty plea, and that my record would not be permanently spotted, and that after 5 years I could have it all expunged with zero lasting effect.

He came off as someone doing me a favor and made it seem like my adamant desire for trial was unreasonable on my part and that I didn't understand the "Big Picture".

My mother and my grandmother were both there and hysterical. And I wanted nothing more than for them to shut up! I began to vehemently argue with them as they sided with the PD. And I still told the PD that I wanted a trial, adamantly denied guilt, cited the sheer coincidence of my arrest in doing a good work. TRUTH IS STRANGER THAN FICTION AT TIMES.

So the PD again speaks to my Grandmother and Mother, assures them and me that a "No Contest" is not guilty and masked it as as mere plea of convenience and made it look like a "Just be more careful who you associate with, and so and so isn't a good friend" type of thing.

So after the PD convinced me and my family that in 5 years it would all go away I relented against my better judgment and pled no contest.

I got 6 months unsupervised probation and a mere $188 dollar fine. Which I payed with no problems. The unsupervised probation meant I could drink and party without interruption or inspection.....which I DID!

6 months passed and that was it. Never heard from probation or anyone. Fines were paid and I wasn't the least bit inconvenienced. except for that ONE day in the district court. The arrest, and plea all happened in one day and It was resolved by the work days end. I walked in in cuffs and walked right back out a free man. The deal with the DEVIL of a PD seemed to have been a good one.

*edit note* : The original arrest and release happened in a single afternoon where I walked in cuffed and right back out free because it was near the end of the work day. I was quickly released on unsecured bail and a court date was set. And that court date was is where the issue with the incompetent PDefender happened. And within the course of the afternoon I was released without further appearance or personal required other than the mere fine. I got ahead of myself typing and made an error, this is the correction.

So here we are in 2015. I grew up to be a volunteer fireman, patriotic American and good man. I just got my Firefighter 1 after passing the state test that many others FAILED! So I decided I will apply for a job with the city now that there is a opening.

One thing though...the app says NO MISDEMEANOR CONVICTIONS! I think "No Sweat" thinking of the minor blip of 14 years ago. So I think OK 5 years is well passed nows time to get this thing expunged just like the PD...I MEAN THE DEVIL..had guaranteed me!

So I go look...and the Judge is DEAD. Died 7 or so years ago. I get all my paperwork and wouldn't you know it...it says I have a M3, Misdemeanor 3 THAT CANNOT BE EXPUNGED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Im like WHAT!!!!**********? The PD EXPRESSLY TOLD ME AFTER 5 YEARS, and NO PERMANENT MARK! THATS THE ONLY REASON I TOOK THE DAMN PLEA TO BEGIN WITH!

So they tell me the only chance I have now is to go to the State Board of Pardons. Which can take 3 or so years and a lot more MONEY!


So my point is if someone tells you they found a bike or a bike was left abandoned.....LEAVE IT ALONE!


​

jetboy 

well, I ended up buying that frame on CL. turns out it was a 59cm and not a 57! (thanks gaucho777 for noticing and notifying).

So i purchased some paint to respray the colors, though I am hoping to preserve the grey/white on most of the frame. If it works and the colors look good then I probably have enough to do two bikes - if you are still thinking of restoring.

easyupbug 

In the interest of people not trashing tweaked 753r frames I disagree with the general position of the internet (and quoted Reynolds engineers) that 753 can not be coldset, care must be taken but it is commonly done by experienced shops which are probably few (if I recall correctly when mine was built in '84 there were fewer than a dozen builders certified by Reynolds to use 753). I have a frame that was unridable and had the fork and stays straightened and reset to 130 and it now has just over 7,000 miles and is as fine a ride as any of my bikes. A Marchetti-Lange frame alignment table and massive cast iron fork table were used so it is not for a shade tree mechanic but the total charge was only $100.

jetboy 

as evidence my newly acquired 753 Look frame currently measures in at 130mm (actually 129.4) so it must have been cold set at some point. properly done yes, it does seem to work.