Having found a Mavic BB in one of the frames in the attic, I took it to a mechanic to see if he had anything that might help replace the bearings. He recommended a shop in Narbonne, "been there years, has all the old stuff and sells really top end bikes". Looking forward to another bike shop to visit, I was only slightly sceptical. This is the outside..



I introduced myself and showed him the BB. "I used to have the tool for that, but I've not seen it in years". Chatted briefly about loose/sealed bearings and Mavic. He then went back in to the depths of the shop and after less than 2 minutes came back with not only the 6 pin tool (missing 2 pins) but the chamfering tool too. I think I'm going to enjoy getting to know that shop.

Glad you found a retailer you can trust (not easy to do these days). Just don't forget the buyer beware fundamental, and remember a good retailer is the one that scores well over time.

I'll still be using the other shops but this chap is much more in to the vintage than the others. He offered to lend me the tool, but I said I'd rather come back with the frame..

Love the two signs-Giant and Gitane!

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