Hello,

First time on the forums. My beloved 1987 Bridgestone MB-1 has finally broke (the one that came with drop bars stock). The chain side, chain stay tube has broken about 1 cm from the bottom bracket. I think there is some rust/ corrosion around the break. Is it worth having it welded back together? Or am I going to lose balance/frame strenght from doing so?

I bought it new and have ridden the hell out of this bike and have replaced every moving part at least three times over and quite a few other parts as well. As such it could very well have developed weak points else where on the frame. I will be buying a new bike once I wrap my brain around all the new technology and brands but if it is worth doing so, I would not mind keeping this one for nostalgia and occasional rides. Thoughts?

I know little about Bridgestones. Is it a welded frame or lugged frame? If it's lugged you could probably have a new chainstay brazed in. Welded, I'm not so sure.
-Gene-

That's a special bike you have. You could have new stays brazed on, but as you said there may be other weak points on the frame. If done right by a good frame builder you won't lose any frame strength or balance.

Realistically though, it only makes sense to repair the frame for the sentimental value of it. It's an expensive process, and is cost prohibitive for most people when compared to buying a new or gently used frame

Alternatively, send it to me. I would fix it.

jim

Dunno the actual value of an MB-1, but it might be worth repairing just for lore. At least get it in good enough shape to hang on a wall, and tell people about the early days of Grant Peterson, building mountain bikes with drop bars and wearing shoes on his head (and other crazy things).

I knew when I bought it it was a decent bike, but I never knew the history until it broke and I started researching it. I paid $700 for it on sale as it was the previous year's model and everyone wanted the new version with normal handle bars (the drops are still on mine).

Speaking of Grant Peterson, I've been thinking of a Rivendell as a possible replacement. I live in the bay area and Walnut Creek is with in driving distance. I wonder if they would give me a deal on repairing the frame if I end up buying one of their bicycles...

Otherwise, any recommendations of frame builders who would do this kind of work in the Bay Area, preferably on or close to the peninsula?

I think you could find a replacement frame cheaper than having yours repaired properly. The Pedaler in El Sobrante had a NOS purple MB-3 frame for sale the last time I looked. I paid $75 for my MB-2.

Rivendell doesn't do repairs. Their frames aren't built in Walnut Creek.

I would consider going custom, you could even have a similar looking lugged frame... but made with the latest and strongest steel or titanium. The builder will be able to help you sift through the modern components you need and dont need to help you create your ultimate dream bike.