lanky_chris

Hey,

I'm pretty new to the scene - only really been riding properly for about 6 months. But it makes for a nicer commute than the tube!

I have been given an old Peugeot road bike - fantstic machine with a huge frame (I'm 6ft 5). All components are standard excluding tyres, seat and seat post (That was a fun one!).
Unfortunately it needs some work - I basically want to change the drive chain due to rust and wear & tear.

It looks a lot like a 1976 PX-8 (But is doesn't have the half chrome forks) Some help with ID would be much appreciated. I tried using peugeotshow.com but im not enough of an expert to pick out the details.
https://img714.imageshack.us/i/dsc00077oq.jpg/

I would also like to know how easy it would be to upgrade bits. I.e. can I order a group set and not have to worry about fitting the chainring onto the axle?

Cheers!

(btw - I noticed I can't spell *peugeot)

wrk101

Nutted axles, steel rims, no chrome, cottered crank = AO8 or similar. I can't make out the headtube lug details, that would be the only question I would have.

Updates on a 1970s Peugeot can be somewhat expensive, due to unique obsolete French parts. Its getting better, there are a couple of choices out there, but the prices are significantly higher, and choices are very limited. Updating/upgrading bikes that used current standard sizing can be much cheaper.

But if you are happy with it as it is, then just the basic bearings/grease/cables and housings maintenance is all that is required. Nothing unique on any of those parts, so that should be an easy undertaking.

The chain is a cheap standard part, around here I can buy a new chain for that bike for less than $5.

Bethellodge

I'd agree with wrk101, and guess that it's not P series. Though those lugs are throwing me off. Some simple upgrades will greatly improve things for you - alloy rims, high quality brake pads (Kool Stop make pretty and pricey salmon pads for mafac brakes).

If it's Simplex derailleurs check for cracks in the plastic. if you find any, replace them. Some also say that replacing AVA stems is urgent as they are prone to cracking.

Sheldon Brown has some pretty thorough info on french bike sizes etc. - google "Sheldon Brown French"

Upgrades can come slowly and you will connect with the bike the more you do. Enjoy!

Bethellodge

Also see here for peugeot catalogues...try matching headbadge descriptions:
https://mysite.verizon.net/vzerndgo/index.html

auchencrow

Welcome to C&V lanky_chris!

I believe Thrifty Bill's assessment is right on - I would add that if you are seriously interested in upgrading your A08 the place to start is the wheels. Alloy wheels will make the single largest improvement in weight, ride and braking that you can make.

Going from cottered to cotterless can be expensive because of the price of original French threaded components, but as Bill points out there are a few more choices today than in the past.

Personally I am content with cottered cranks - but if I had to upgrade (and was not a purist), I would probably go with a modern French-threaded Grand Cru bottom bracket from VO. This would allow you a wide range of crank set options, new or used. Note however that the crank is what determines the bb - not the other way around.

That being said, you need to understand your connection with the bike, and how much you are willing to spend, because an alloy wheel set and VO bb together will cost more than what the bike is worth. You may be better off just servicing it as Bill suggests, and saving your money for another bike down the line.

PS - You can buy a good KMC 5-speed chain on-line at Niagara very inexpensively. Be advised though that of your rear cogs are worn, the new chain could skip, so you would have to replace the freewheel as well. Both tasks require some bike specific tools which you should invest in anyway. - You will find much useful information at the Park Tool website and at Sheldon Browns website. There is good general information at the My Ten Speeds site also.

lanky_chris

Thanks very much guys.

Thats really very helpful. (I will admit to hoping it was a hidden gem, despite the odds!)

But it fits, rides nice and smooth and feels more solid than any other bike I've been on. I think the basic service and elbow grease will be my main concern, with possibly the wheels soon.

Other than that I should probably start saving. I will probably leave this bike as a more long term restoration job.

Thanks for the advice!

jimmuller 

In some ways your last statement is the definition of a hidden gem. It's the most important thing about how a bike rides. Those Peugeot frames were far better riders than their price would suggest, which is why Peugeot sold so many of them.

Can't tell from the pic if those wheels are alloy. If so, don't worry about replacing them. If the bearings, bottom bracket, and headset are lubed and smooth, and if the chain is not rusty or tight, and if the brakes work, and if the derailleurs are functional and not cracked, then ride it and enjoy.