BSA Tour de France

[JuanLobbe]

HI all

I've managed to get hold of a BSA Tour de France that was abandoned on waste ground near my work. I'd like to restore it to working order (perhaps even get it powder coated, who knows). I was wondering how to find out the parts I'll need. I know a bit about about the wheels, chain and cassette, but where can I find out about gear levers, derailleurs, cables, bottom bracket etc etc?

Any advice much appreciated. I have had a look at Veterans Cycle Club Library but not much joy. Also can't see a serial number on it anywhere - thought it'd be underneath but no joy.

BSA1

• JuanLobbe
• 17 Oct 2016

BSA2

• JuanLobbe
• 17 Oct 2016

BSA3

• JuanLobbe
• 17 Oct 2016

BSA4

• JuanLobbe
• 17 Oct 2016

BSA5

• JuanLobbe
• 17 Oct 2016

BSA6

• JuanLobbe
• 17 Oct 2016

BSA7

• JuanLobbe
• 17 Oct 2016

 

[Cycleops]

Looks in great condition for its age. No rust on the frame I can see so best left alone. Unmolested as one of our contributors regularly says. Check the BB by wiggling it side to side to check for play. Can't see the chain set or gear cassette so look for 'hooked' or sharp teeth. Its possible its seen little use in which case just replace the cables, grease bearings in BB and hubs. New brake blocks. Might need new tyres and inners and should then be ready to ride.

Great find.

 

[JuanLobbe]

Thanks!! I'll follow your advice. Have bough a replacement cassette. Front wheel is bent so will need replacing!

 

[Cycleops]

Is it a steel or alloy rim?

The T de F label is a bit of a misnomer as this was a basic 'cooking' model so don't expect any great performance from it. It dates I would guess from the seventies, although someone will come up with a more accurate time line.

Just seen your powder coating comment. DONT DO IT!

One more thing check the headset bearings by holding on the front brake and pulling the bars back and forth, you'll feel any play. Raise the front wheel and make sure the bars go from lock to lock smoothly without binding.

 

[T4tomo]

I thought for a moment it was sporting fulcrum racing 5s, but they are just positioned behind it!

If the hubs are fine then suggest getting the wheel rebuilt by LBS or wheel builder to keep the period look.

 

[JuanLobbe]

Ooh good idea. thanks. More pics now added!

BSA8

• JuanLobbe
• 17 Oct 2016
• 1

 

[raleighnut]

Nice.

 

[uphillstruggler]

just looking at the image BSA9. is that damage at the bottom of the downtube?

 

[Spokesmann]

Looks like a later model, the chainwheel has been modified - the inner ring looks different. Great to see this old model.

 

[biggs682]

@JuanLobbe just do an oil rag restoration thats all it needs in my eyes

so fresh grease in all bearings, rebuild damaged wheel , new tyres,tubes,pads and cables then enjoy

 

[Fab Foodie]

Do not powder coat!!!!!