super geek cycling query

[mattham]

a post about fixies spurred me to put this up here ??am sure some of the more obsessive cycling fraternity will have a view on this.

just acquired a beautiful old colnago frame which I'm going to build up as a fixed/single speed. It's got a few scratches and I'd like to get it resprayed, but that will mean losing the original stickers (which aren't in that great nick). So, should I just have done with it, respray and replace, or preserve the old?

Please let me know your feelings on this matter of near national importance.

[lozzyloz]

mlteenie has recently done this and I believe is ED's leading authority on these matters.

[Klaus]

The bicycle is one of the best (possibly the best) inventions ever made and as such their beauty comes from their functionality. The way they look is important but they shouldn't be suseptible to the vagueries of fashion and style.

You've not going to ride it round to show off as the driver of a beautiful classic car might choose to criuse up and down the Kings Road... you'll ride it because it's a classic design that still feels like a great bike today. Practicality should rule every bike decision!

So, er, spray it.

[benjaminty]

I have a frame that's with a guy called Mario... actually got a recommendation from the Forum .. I'm picking up from him tomorrow (as well as a blasted set of iron work table legs) .. he's very good!

So if you go with a respray I'd def recommend him.... about ?60 and he'll remove ya chain etc if you cant sort it.

http://www.eastdulwichforum.co.uk/forum/read.php?9,109882,110044#msg-110044

[char1ie]

Show us a picture. Is it a Colnago frame with the grooves in the top tube? Don't get it refinished unless you can find someone who has previously done one and can show you the results. A well finished frame is one thing but to re do all the graphics can be a difficult thing.

Charlie

[mattham]

Klaus, I agree, the bike is just about the best invention ever. But I think any activity can be practised with a nod to aesthetics. I'm building a fixie as I think it will improve my handling; I'm also training for a big event next year. But I'd be lying if I said it wasn't primarily about the look...hence the vintage frame. Still, I think I'll have it resprayed and decide later about the graphics.

Char1ie, pics attached for your viewing pleasure. I'll try to post some when it's finished. But that will take ages.

[SteveT]

There is a place in Hackney that will powder coat it, they have loads of colours and they also cost ?60

Armourtex 0208 986 2028 Duncan or Steve.

[jim_the_chin]

keep it original, why buy vintage then try to make it look new? don't the scratches and wear add to it?

[Damo]

I'd leave as is, nice frame.