I randomly came across this full-chromoly Trek frame that I got for free from the bicycle association where I volunteer, just as I was looking to build a bike for my partner.
The frame is quite scratched and has clearly lived a lot, but I plan to preserve its patina and bring the paint back to life with a good polish + a clear coat. For the rest, it will be built with as many silver parts as possible, some fast-rolling tires like Billy Bonkers, and of course, A FRONT RACK.
Stay tuned, more photos will come over time.
by Otherwise-Tie-1105
3 Comments
Just a PSA from someone that learned the hard way: don’t do this with bikes that have metal studded pedals or with the teeth on the big ring on the crank exposed… One slip and you’ll get a chip in the enamel on the tub…
If you screw up like I did: seal it with enamel fingernail polish before the cast iron starts to rust.
Washing it without the crank like this is a pretty smooth move… But still be careful..
This paired with an electric air duster for drying is my go-to technique. So easy with a detachable showerhead and a toothbrush.
I have one of just like that in the rebuild process – Great bikes! I polished the frame using Mothers Mag wheel polish and followed it up with Mothers Cleaner/Paste wax. Looking forward to seeing the project progress.