Hi,
I recently picked up an 1980 Austro Daimler Olympian frameset. Does anyone have any info on these frames? It if full rynolds 531, and in nice shape. I am new to rebuilds, just finishing an Austro Daimler AD SL fixed gear (the frame had no components when I received, so I built it up simply, learning how to replace headset, bottom bracket, brakes, etc). This Olympian is clean, straight with slight surface rust. (Any ideas on removing the surface rust without damaging the existing paint?) As a noob, how should I go about restoring this frame. I replaced headset with a 105 headset, and have a105 rear derailler sitting around. I plan on building this frame with 105 throughout, if feasible (and somewhat cheap). The frame came with no bottom bracket, does anyone know the thread type, as well as recommend a bottom bracket/crankset and gearing/wheelset for this build. I would like to rebuild this bike slowly, as nicely as I can. Any thoughts, comments, crticism are appreciated. i look forward to learning a lot with this rebuild.. Attached are some pics.
Ron

I don't know jack squat about Austro-Daimlers, but I think that thing is awesome!

Here is a catalog link: https://bulgier.net/pics/bike/Catalogs/AustroDaimler/

It's a good solid Reynolds 531 frame but it is not as sought after as their black chromed "Vent Noir" bikes. It still has a bit more "classic cachet" than other bikes close to it's quality level, like Peugeots, Gitanes and Motobecanes, because of the unusual name. Although AD did equip a lot of their bikes with Japanese components, I think it would be real nice if you can use at least an NR Campy gruppo on it if it's within your budget. It will present a full Euro picture and I think this AD frameset can pull it off.

Chombi
84 Peugeot PSV

Hi...your AD looks a lot like my Puch...unfortunantly, I don't really know any of this bike's history, but it has Reynolds 531 frame/fork, full Campy Gran Sport group, Rigida 700c rims, and an Ideale 90 leather saddle. Good luck with your built, that frame is a beaut!

Thanks the the rplys. Ohjohnnybegoods, your Puch sure is pretty. I would like to get a NR grouppo, but it looks as if that won't fit my budget (unless someone has a grouppo on the cheap they would let go, hehe). I figured a 105 group since I have/had a few pieces laying around (rear derailleur, headest). I have some campy stuff as well, but not at the level of NR. Does anyone know how to clean surface rust without damaging/scuffing the paint. Also, where should I start with a bottom bracket, and any idea of threading?

This should help with the rust
https://www.bikeforums.net/search.php?searchid=6570525

Maybe you should also consider a full frame repaint. Good thing is, the monochrome white/cream(?) paintjob will be easy to replicate. Austro Daimler decals also do come up at eBay once in a while. It will result in a very impressive bike if you do a full ground up restoration and then maybe slowly bring up the components to full Campy NR level as budgets allow.

Chombi
84 Peugeot PSV

I like the idea of a full frame repaint, but again I am not sure of the cost, nor know of anyone in NYC or Long Island. I see the decals on ebay right now. So the vote is for campy NR. Like I said, I'm in no rush to build this quickly, nor do I have the money for the campy stuff right now. Would a campy bottom bracker work with this threading, and any idea of spindle length? The frame also came with early dura ace drilled brake levers. Any idea if these came with the bike originally?
Ron