Here's a quick progress report. I've been concentrating on the Lotus while I wait on the construction of a set of 700c wheels:
I replaced the narrow handlebars and brake levers that were originally mounted on the Lotus. The old Shimano 600 levers showed some battle scars.
I was going to remove the brake levers and throw them in my parts pile until I noticed that they were attached to the bars with a nut. There just wasn't enough space to get a socket in there. I threw them aside and moved on.
My package from Velo Orange arrived this afternoon with a pair of MKS Touring Pedals, a brass bell and a very nice replacement set of brake levers. I like the look of the non-aero brake levers.
Since I'll be switching from 27" wheels to 700c, I decided to replace the original Shimano 600 brakes with a pair of long reach Tektros.
I rode over to Half Priced Books this weekend and bought a few maintenance books. I was looking for old books because all I work on are old bikes. I struck gold with this 1986 book from Bicycling Magazine, the repair guide in the center was published in 1972. The Park Tool repair guide is practically brand new, it was printed in 2008.
I've seen a couple copies of that "Fix Your Bicycle" book that's in the center of the photo. Such a great hokey 70's cover!
ReplyDeleteI have the book at left.
ReplyDeleteMy brake with a nutted retainer has more clearance than yours. Still, it looks as if a thin-wall socket such as SnapOn makes might work.
Can't wait to see your finished project!
ReplyDeleteThe BBB-2 is a great find. I see those 600 levers are made from drillium!
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ReplyDeleteNice score on those vintage manuals! I'm also stoked to see the finished product!
ReplyDeleteIt looks like you're making some major improvements to this bicycle. Like limom, I look forward to seeing the end result!
ReplyDeleteI have the book on the right.
Great update! Even when you encounter obstacles, you keep going and, through persistence and creative thinking, end up in a better place. Like a very nice book find.
ReplyDeleteThat Bicycling magazine repair guide is the one I bought when I decided to never again pay a bike shop to work on my bikes. It is a great source for older bikes (which were still new when I was using it!).
ReplyDeleteGood find.
I see what you mean about the hex nut on your brakes. I hope you figure out how to get those off. It's always frustrating when you realize you need some kind of tool that you don't have. Seems to happen to me often.
ReplyDeleteI've checked the Park Tool book out of the library. It's good.
Good luck!
I think a Campagnolo T-wrench will work on that nut. I still use the one I've had for almost 40 years.
ReplyDeleteThose MKS touring pedals are a great buy! I have a pair and I still love'em. Your bike maintenance and repair skills are quite impressive, Myles!
ReplyDeletePeace :)