I suppose everyone on here has picked up an old junker bike just to salvage a part or two, but I think I must have hit theoretical rock bottom yesterday. One last little thing I forgot to get for my fixy build was an extra bottom bracket lock ring to use as insurance on the suicide hub I am (unfortunately) using. No extra ones hanging around. Really did not feel like making another trip to the bike store. But then I spied my neighbors clearing out their back yard, including several wrecked bikes. I wandered over and lifted a much unloved women's bike out of the dump truck and brought it over to steal that 5 cent ring.

Is it possible to salvage a less common or less expensive part?

And in a related note, is anyone interested in a partially incomplete Ladies Free Spirit? Lovely bike. Some new paint, all new components, some wheels and tires, and you will have a sweet little rider. I will deliver it to your front yard under the cover of darkness.

j