What category should this be in?

[John D. Williams]

This is a 2005-6 Giant Stiletto chopper. Not a custom, not a muscle bike from the '60s-'70s. For some reason I am attracted to bikes like this, I've had a Chester Cheetos, a bamboo bike, other oddities. This bike was cheap and in bad shape, so I took it completely apart and brought it back to life. Chrome frame under the bad black paint! Going to be a fun ride on the various beach boardwalks of Long Island NY.

 

[Freqman1]

I consider stuff like this modern and not classic or antique in my book. That said folks post modern e-bikes and box store stuff all the time. I'd call it either muscle or custom.

 

[John D. Williams]

I consider stuff like this modern and not classic or antique in my book. That said folks post modern e-bikes and box store stuff all the time. I'd call it either muscle or custom.

Well, yes. The thought occurred to me that it's like collecting a 1965 Stingray in 1986. Anyway, the Stiletto was worth saving. It's 50 pounds, takes almost the whole street to turn, and needs the two bottom brackets repacked. The front one, with the cranks, is eccentric-- that's how the chain is tensioned-- so I will have to mark it to get it back in place. With the seat in its back position, it's still a bit small for me at 5'9. But as a boardwalk cruiser (when I figure out an easy way to get it there), it's going to be a good addition to the party.

 

[Archie Sturmer]

I am not opposed to a new "Cheetos Bikes" forum for bikes like those.

 

[John D. Williams]

I am not opposed to a new "Cheetos Bikes" forum for bikes like those.

Haha well put. That was a 1986 as I remember, so yes it's classic by now. The guy that bought mine is still offering it for sale. I put a "headbadge" on it from a Cheetos bag so I recognize it. Best ride I had with that one was a 22 mile Wounded Warrior ride. (And I think everyone on CABE secretly knows that these bikes will one day be prized...)