Harold Van Doren all Aluminum Bicycle

[Phattiremike]

UPDATE. I've been re-working the Van Doran - just didn't care for the first attempt to clean and shine it up. The 92 year old metal master I met a few months ago who gave me pointers on the proper "how to process" of aluminum cleaning was a blessing. Check out some updated pictures, minor detail work to be done but I couldn't be happier with the results. PLEASE if anyone finds documentation on this bike please let me know what you find.
BTW, I met Leon Dixon a few months ago we went back and forth via email about this bike he's not sure it's a bicycle he's ever seen and all of his records are in another state, I'm hoping he comes through with something in the future.

-Mike

 

[Classic Cool Rides]

That is amazing, Mike!! .... WOW .... never would have expected to see how that bike really Pops!
and those pics in James "museum" just made me drool !! .... I need to go change my shirt now ...
Great Job!! Cheers! CCR Dave (P.S. looking forward to seeing you in March at Pete's place!!)

 

[1motime]

Great job! Shiny and very even polish and the texture on the castings show a nice contrast.
Those wheel discs tell it all. Can't hide anything with those reflections!
Looks like it has found a good home

 

[Phattiremike]

Sprocket side no dents or dings on the disc rims back side a minor ding or 2. Thanks for the compliments it was a labor of love, lol.

 

[Blue Streak]

For archival reference here is a Van Doren that sold at Auction in January 2021 (photos from auction listing)

 

[Phattiremike]

Thank you for sharing, was there a description on the bike?

-mike

 

[Blue Streak]

Here is auction listing. No description other than stating Harold Van Doren Aluminum Bicycle. Price realized was $320.00

 

[cr250mark]

Here is auction listing. No description other than stating Harold Van Doren Aluminum Bicycle. Price realized was $320.00

View attachment 1571381

thanks for posting
Different lower crank housing or custom repair bracket
Also looks like remnants of something on headtube - decal ??
Cool

mark

 

[1motime]

Steel bracket looks to be for preventing bottom bracket from twisting. Well made and square nuts might be original. Lots of sideways torque while pedaling.

 

[Phattiremike]

@Blue Streak thanks for sending the auction description. I was hoping for some better documentation.
Mark, I thought the same about a possible decal but if you look there appears to be black paint flaking on other area's of the bike.
Bottom bracket repair who knows???
Mike