I need some quick advice!

I just got a 1952 Bianchi Specialissimo from a guy here in Houston for $150.00. He had it for 15 years hanging in his garage. The guy he got it from had it hanging in his garage...but was owned by his dad who has been deceased for decades. Hasn't been rode since atleast the early 70's. Tires are flat and paint is peeling...but shessshh....its all there and Campy to boot.

It is black with the chrome lugs and even has the exact same crank as on COPPI'S 1952 TDF bike. It has all Campy parts including hubs and early 52/53 Campy Gran Sport front and rear derailers. Again...lots of chrome. Christophe toe clips...Bianchi "B" pedals. Its all good.

I know...I squirelled...but what to do now? I am polishing the chrome lugs and they are looking great. Should I paint it back to black...or would it be a sin to paint it another more modern color like 1992 Corvette metalic red...kind of pearlized?? I had a 69 Firebird I painted that color and it was beautiful.

I understand celeste was COPPI'S bike color but so many people have painted theirs to match that color too. I have read many forum whre others also say theirs was black as well and have seen some painted back nicely to black.

I guess I know I will probably never sell the bike...and I want something different. I do plan on riding it on special occasions.

At the same time I respect opinions from guys who have been in the bike world way longer than I. I have only been into road bikes for about a month in which time I have acquired a Interclub Gitane and a Grand Sport Gitane. (both GRAPE) ($75 total for both) The Interclub is a hell of a bike btw. Pick one up if you see it...they are cheap and run like heck. What are your ideas on the paint fellas? Am I commiting a felony in the bike world if I paint it something other than what it was originally?

Thanks,

Umpire54