aaaand update #2....

Took the plastic zipties and stuff off. Didn't have the proper tool to remove the allen head nut securing the rear rack to the seatstays. Decided since its a Blackburn rack, good enough to stay. I think the seat cover can be reglued?

What's the usual recommended stuff to clean a frame with that'll cut oil/grease/road grime without talking the decals off? Can I use WD40? engine degreaser? No? how about simple green?

Is there a 'poor man's' stand I can jerry-rig? And what other tools would you folks recommend I invest in?

No riding so far, don't trust the wheels and it's HTH out there!

Tom