Help with an Atala ID?
 

Hi folks,

I just picked up a cheap Atala frame that I plan on saving from rust demons and cobweb filled attics. From what I have been able to learn via various web searches, Atala was once owned and manufactured by Bianchi during the 80's. I know they aren't Colnagos but for $50 I figured I couldn't go wrong in doing my first budget restoration. :D

The frame is red and Columbus SLX tubed. It has a Campagnolo headset and possibly BB (haven't really dug into it yet)
http://lh6.ggpht.com/scarsgo/SBjPeBD...JPG?imgmax=720

Gallery of more pics here: http://picasaweb.google.com/scarsgo/AtalaBomber

The number on the bottom is 90J3709 along with 58SLX (58cm SLX... that part was easy)
Anyone know how Atala numbered their frames back in the day? I'm wondering if this is perhaps a 1990 model with an October build date (J corresponding to the 10th month)?

Anyone have an idea what model this might be?

Thanks for any input! :)

I've always liked Atala too. I think your guess of 1990 may be right. I bought one that was supposedly from '55, but its serial number is 58I2975. So I'm thinking mine might actually be from '58.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y56...s/IMG_1677.jpg

You got an Italian SLX frame and fork for $50? Whoever made it, you have scored!

Thank you for the comments guys. I'm certainly happy to have found this frame and fork even if it isn't a legendary ride. This will be my first attempt at bicycle restoration and I am pretty excited to get to work on it. I suspect my OCD nature may take over and push me over the edge of sanity but I see that is nothing out of the ordinary for this forum. ;-)

Speaking of resto issues, does anyone know of a source for Atala head badges and proper frame decal sets? I found a few Atala decals in an ebay store but they are sort of generic... not exactly frame set.
I found and ordered the appropriate Columbus decals from an ebay seller downunder thanks to another post in these forums.

Still need a head tube decal or badge:
http://lh6.ggpht.com/scarsgo/SBjPgBD...JPG?imgmax=512

I'm betting this little sucka is darn near unobtainium:
http://lh6.ggpht.com/scarsgo/SBjPhBD...JPG?imgmax=512

I'll likely have to hand cut the little white highlight decals before the Atala decal shown here
http://lh5.ggpht.com/scarsgo/SBjPpxD...JPG?imgmax=720

JRrestore can handle all these decals, I'd bet. He'll direct you as to what pics he'd need in addition to what you have, as well as taking measurements. The multi-color ones are going to cost more than the single color stripes and script, but JR is reasonably priced for what you get.
I would say Atala is actually a pretty legendary marque, though not as well-known to the masses as bigger brands, nor as collectible, but I bet yours will be a fine rider and well worth restoration.
Good luck!