Classic Bike Building

[SquareDaff]

I took some photos of all the components but it's not clear due to the pitting. I seem to remember that they were Weinmann's but didn't note the model. I'm not even sure they're the original brakes - but the whole point of this was to give me a project so I will find out.

From my brief check of its history the Langsett road bikes were quite well known in the 50's. Plus the shop is still around and reasonably local (I'm in Leeds - it's in Sheffield) so I'm hoping they'll prove to be a valuable resource for information.

 

[rbreid]

Not just well known, due in part to the shops own race team, but also quite highly regarded. There are two schools re restoration. 1. Reproduce the bike exactly as it left the shop. 2. Include the natural upgrades that a top end bike in use would receive from a proud original owner ie upgrade from sidepulls to centrepulls or go from 5 speed to compact 6. Change to alloy rims from steel etc.
Worth bearing in mind too that customers had a much greater say in the componentry fitted at Point of sale even on mid range bikes and certainly on higher end like yours.
Personally I follow the second school but it is a decision for each individual to make themselves.
Best of luck with your project and above all enjoy

 

[SquareDaff]

Thanks! I'm probably aiming for option 2) as well but trying not to mix years - so I'll put on what would have been available circa June 1953, when I know it was built.

I've seen you've done a few restoration jobs yourself. Am I OK to pick your brains should I need to? I'm sure there are loads of potential pitfalls to be avoided by the restoration novice and I'm definately one of those! You have to start somewhere though!

Glad to have it confirmed I've picked a decent frame as a base.

 

[rbreid]

Pick away, got quite a few contacts for bits and pieces, happy to share. Started in a bike shop late 60's and on and off around an army career till opened own bike shop early 90's. Got a reputation locally for period rebuilds (they weren't period to me) Lot of fun to be had for you in researching and tracing parts.

 

[accountantpete]

Velobase might be of help - just click on the 1950's box at the bottom and that will give you some idea of what to look for.

http://velobase.com/SearchBasic.aspx

 

[biggs682]

Oh dear! oh dear! oh dear! All my bikes bar one comply fully. I'm getting old

same hear , just goes to show how good the old uns are

 

[baldycyclist]

Well I have a bike. Managed to get hold of a Langsett Cycles 1953 hand built road bike. It's not in bad condition either. View attachment 31985 1st job is to strip it down and remove all the rust from the frame and forks and then respray it. I've been in touch with Langsett Cycles to see if they can advise me about the bikes "original" colour scheme. Then it's a case of working out what components are salvageable - think the pedals are beyond redemption but was pleasantly surprised with the wheels. The rear is true and the front is about 1mm out - but the bearings just run and run.

Does anyone have any experience of these bikes?

do you work in Currys or something?

 

[SquareDaff]

do you work in Currys or something?

OK I'll bite. Why?

 

[biggs682]

OK I'll bite. Why?

must admit i didnt understand that comment either

 

[SquareDaff]

Well the bike has now been stripped down with the exception of 2 things....a) the handlebars which I know know how to remove coutesy of Sheldon and b) the cranks. I've had a look through Sheldon but couldn't find anything on this. Can anyone suggest any articles on bike crank removal?

 

[RecordAceFromNew]

It is hard to be 100% sure with your bike's photo but it seems you have a typical, relatively modern (compared to '53) square tapered bb. See this. If so you need a tool like this, but make sure you remove the cap on the left before using it. Not following instructions fully will strip the thread on the crank.

 

[SquareDaff]

I'll get some close up photos and read the article you've provided. The frame was built in 1953 - from the little I know about these things I'm pretty certain that the components have been upgraded to something closer to the late 70's/early 80's.

 

[baldycyclist]

oh - sorry - the comment was due to all the white goods in the pics
Sorry for not replying sooner just been away for a while

 

[SquareDaff]

oh - sorry - the comment was due to all the white goods in the pics
Sorry for not replying sooner just been away for a while

I understand now!
Yes, there are a few aren't there! That picture not taken at my house though!

 

[SquareDaff]

Quick update - have been in touch with Langsett Cycles and talked to Andrew who has been very helpful. They have a book of all the bikes they built - which includes mine - and details of the specification and colours etc.. It also contains samples of all the decals that would have been on it so that I can easily recreate them.