andybee75
Finally riding a big boys bike
My Rambler 1902 is finally rideable again, probably hasn't seen the roads for decades. The rear wooden rim was so warped that the wheel wouldn't even turn, but after the rim was spoked down, the joint reglued with epoxy and clamped in a jig, dried, put in water for a couple of days, repainted to patina condition... nothing happened! The rim was just as warped as before. Got tired of it all and did nothing more on the bike all summer.
A few weeks ago, on a hunch, i turned the wheel and discovered that it suddenly had become much straighter. Summer's humidity is not only bad, indeed! So a little straightening of the rim and new tires and it was possible to ride. Far from straight wheels, but good enough. The front wheel didn't need any repair. Freshly serviced bearings also did the trick. Nickel-replated and painted the front badge that was polished down to the brass by a previous owner, someone has partially restored the bike, probably a long time ago. A few contemporary accessories on and it will roll on Malmö Tweed Ride (Sweden) if the weather permits it.
A few weeks ago, on a hunch, i turned the wheel and discovered that it suddenly had become much straighter. Summer's humidity is not only bad, indeed! So a little straightening of the rim and new tires and it was possible to ride. Far from straight wheels, but good enough. The front wheel didn't need any repair. Freshly serviced bearings also did the trick. Nickel-replated and painted the front badge that was polished down to the brass by a previous owner, someone has partially restored the bike, probably a long time ago. A few contemporary accessories on and it will roll on Malmö Tweed Ride (Sweden) if the weather permits it.
(IMO)
