Im thinking about buying a bike from 70-80s. I would like to replace drivetrain parts gradually as they get worn out. I need to know for which parts replacements can be easily found and for which it is really difficult, what parts are no longer manufactured anywhere in the world and could be only obtained from another old bike? What dimensions do they have, should i expect any trouble with these: wheels (I saw some with 630mm diameter); hubs: rear, front, N of spoke holes (I saw some rear ones 126 mm), bottom bracket - type of threads, widths; crankset; cassette ,freewheel. What else/ about which parts should i be wary of? Is it true that a steel frame can last 100 years?
-- Edited by cyclistmn on Monday 26th of June 2017 12:42:42 AM
I just joined. Not the most active forum in the world, is it???
Having a tough time understanding your post - Do you already have a bike that you want to restore or are these questions for the purpose of directing you to a strategic purchase?
If you want to ride it then you have no choice BUT to "... replace drivetrain parts gradually as they get worn out."
Replacement parts are becoming difficult to find, especially for anything less than Campagnolo, Shimano Dura Ace and Suntour Superbe Pro. Taking parts off "another old bike" is essentially the same as buying second-hand parts of Ebay which is possible...sometimes. Changes everyday.
Dimensions of what are you asking?
All parts wear out, of course. A steel frame will only last 100 years if it is cared for well during that time. Steel rusts, unless it's kept in the dry desert or something - just like cars.
One thing to consider is if the BB or headset bearings will be needing replacement, then you want to make sure that the old ones can come out properly. I also have an older Somec that I would love to restore, but the Shimano (certainly NOT original) bottom bracket has been so butchered that I don't know how to remove it. Everything is possible, though, with enough money to throw at it.
Ok, I need to find out if I'm just wasting my time on a long-dead forum...
Its so frustrating that today there are only a few models in the world with steel frame, they have developed so much of unnecessary, expensive and useless stuff like carbon, hydraulic brakes and so on. Yes, i needed directions for purchase.
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