Originally Posted by
Six jours
My personal opinion (which, on this topic more than most, is worth exactly what you paid for it) is that it's your bike and if you'll get more satisfaction from riding it restored then you should do it - and if you won't, then don't.
If you're worried solely about resale value, then restoration almost never makes sense because even if it increases the resale value it almost certainly won't increase more than the amount you paid for the restoration.
Beyond that, a single caveat: mediocre restorations are never worth it, IMO. If the bike is to be just a "user" and you're worried about rust, then just powdercoat it. But if you want the bike to be nice; something you really enjoy, then you need to find a reputable specialist and pay him what he asks. Otherwise you'll be forever dissatisfied with your could-woulda-shoulda.
I agree with some points but I would disagree on the just powder coat it part. I would either treat the rust locally with naval jelly or bar keepers friend or whatever and touch up the paint there (yeah you can use crappy spray chrome paint too) and just make sure you keep all the decals etc intact. It won't look good but you are just trying to stop the rust and preserve what is there while you use it. The other option of course is a full professional restoration. Figure on spending at least $1000 on this. Others will say it can be done for less, but if you want the real deal I would be very careful about who you choose to chrome it and paint is and then add in shipping cost and decals (not to mention time)... you're looking at $1000 easy. Of course we would all love to see photos so please please do share.
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1 Super Record bike, 1 Nuovo Record bike, 1 Pista, 1 Road, 1 Cyclocross/Allrounder, 1 MTB, 1 Touring, 1 Fixed gear