White Rabbit...Dormouse...?????
 

Started this winter's project today. I delivered my Haro V4 hardtail frame to the metal shop to have it's original paint removed. I gave up on the idea of chemically stripping it because I just don't have the facilities indoors to do it. Typically I would do this in the summer, outdoors.

The only other part of the project that's firm is that I will be using the Marzocchi EXR fork that's standing in the corner of my workshop. (The EXR appears to be an OEM grade version of the MXR comp series and has coil + low pressure air + oil for rebound control) No lockouts so this is pretty old school for front suspension.

The bike will not be white. It may in fact be painted with RUST in a technique similar to the modern hotrodders "Rustorod" look.........:D. Somehow, the thought of rust and high grade carbon parts mixed together appeals to the artist in me.

Now all I need is a name for the beast.

Considering your planned finish, perhaps you have already named it.

Somehow the rust image made me think of our legendary local band Devo.

Oh no..:eek:. Do I need to go in search of a red helmet that sort of looks like a flowerpot?

I think they were called "energy domes".

Well, the frame is back from the sandblasting shop. This cost $40 and it was a quick and dirty on their part without frills or cleanup. They did take the time to very professionally put plugs in all holes and threads. To minimize damage to the tubing, this was done with a very fine grit at a relatively low pressure. It was this shop's opinion that this was the functional equivalent of walnut blasting and that no metal would be lost in the tube walls. This is my first time with this technique so I was willing to accept professional advice. This was their first bike frame, so we're learning using a hands on technique.

After cleanup and degreasing, I'm going to have to make a decision as to what finish/color I'm going to try. Its got to be relatively simple as I'm not going to pay for a professional paint shop.

More later