I normally spend all my time on the Hybrid forum, but I took on a non-hybrid project this weekend. I rescued a 1974 Motobecane Grand Touring from my father's garage. He bought it new in '74, put about 5000 miles on it back in the day, and it hasn't moved from it's ceiling hooks since 1981 as far as anyone can recall.

Surprisingly, all the derailleurs and brakes were fully functional and the wheels were completely true. I saved the old Avocet saddle with a lot of mink oil. It took a lot of elbow grease, tires, tubes, brake pads, bar tape and new hoods, but I'm pleased with the result. This bike has a lot of sentimental value. I've posted a few items in the classic touring bike thread on the Classic and Vintage forum, but thought I would show y'all what I've been up to. This thing rides fast and smooth. 26.5 pounds on a lugged cro-moly frame and 27" wheels. My Fuji Absolute 2.1 may have some competition for the miles now.

A before pic and few after shots...