Originally Posted by
Andrew R Stewart
Wrong size, bent frame, not what OP was looking for and yet...
The frame jack shown is a very powerful tool and can do more harm if not careful. One possibility is ovalizing of the head tube if not well supported (and why I find it "interesting" to show this tool used on a Viscount, famous for rather light weight production frames). I strongly suggest using the head set cups as reinforcing rings when this type of tool is applied.
The challenges with this type of repair can be how far to bend the frame "back". Using the tubes to re establish a straight line can be hard since the bent section work hardens and often that original ripple remains. The mentioned doing other damage with poor tool handling. If the frame has any twist from the impact this tool won't address that at all. If the fork, either blades of steerer, has bent this tool won't help. Then there's the whole trust after having now bent the frame at least twice in the same general area (first by the impact and second+ during the realigning) and will the rider continue to monitor the area for and cracks for as long as they use the bike. I would not move this bike along to another rider either.
This bike's real value is as a parts bike for other projects, IMO. Andy
Hi Andy, thank you for your input on the bike. It really isn't what I'm looking for but for what I am could take years to find. In the interim, this might be a useful and fun bike. Seatposts can be raised, bars and stems changed for sizing. The TT length is already what I ride and I'd ride this bike if the frame weren't wonky. It's just a shame to trash a bike like this, and I'm not even a collector. The rims are those hookless Weinmanns, which have a love/hate reputation. I have zero experience with them.