This bike was given to me by someone who knows I've been looking for a new project. It's a rattle-can repaint, so I have no idea what it's origins are. It appears to be a lower-end bike based on the choice of components, although I really do like the frame. It has some very nice lugs that some of you might even recognize. I believe the threading on the bottom bracket is Italian, if that's of any help.
It's a 55cm frame, steel, not particularly light. There are wide stripes around the seat tube that have been painted over. I'm going to try to sand down gradually through the very thick, white paint that's been applied. Maybe I can get some clues there.
It has mostly Campy components, although very low-end items. In fact, the
description of the derailleurs in Disraeli Gears is hilarious. I'm finding 3 different age references to them that range from late 60's, early 70's, and 1976 with a question mark.
It came with 27" X 1 1/16" tires. The rims are chromed steel, and the spokes are toast. I think they were originally galvanized. Regardless, they're of no value, and I've already taken the wheels apart. The hubs are nice, though. They feel a little notchy, and need rebuilding, but that shouldn't be a problem.
Here's a little better shot of the lugs on the head tube. I can't wait to see them with all that paint off.
I'm trying to get a strategy for going forward. I am very certain this is not a valuable bike, but I'd love to know what it is, where it comes from, what it looked like new, and so forth. I'm also trying to decide how far I want to go with it. I've already tentatively decided to replace the steel rims with aluminum. The steel rims aren't in that bad of shape, but since I'm going to the trouble of rebuilding the wheels, I'm thinking aluminum is a sensible upgrade that won't significantly alter the appearance of the bike. The drive train is 'funky' but not lacking in a certain charm. I hope to keep it completely original.
I suppose what I'm asking is twofold:
Do any of you have an educated guess as to what this might be? If you need additional information or photos, I can try to get it for you.
What should I do with it, and will it be at all desirable when I'm finished (assuming I do a decent job of it).
As always, Thanks for your help.