gitaneusa.com :: View topic - 1977 Interclub - original owner

NebraskaGuy

I have a 1977 Interclub that has almost everything original. The crankset was replaced early on due to a failure, but everything else is original. Except handlebar tape, tires and cables. I thought of selling it once, but I can't bear to part with it. It has some scratches, and minor surface rust on the pedal clips and the fork. Do I just clean it up, or go for a repaint? Exact replacement decals might be hard to find. And I'd hate to get anything messed up. And I need to figure out how to redo the chrome tips on the fork.

I appreciate any suggestions

original paint - silver
Reynolds 531 3 tubes reinforced (french sticker)
25" frame (it's a tall bike)
Huret Challenger derailleurs
Pivo handlebars and stem
Mavic rims
Mafac Racer brakes
originally came with Michelin "Elan" clincher tires
original reflectors on front, back and wheels were removed
(I thought they were ugly)
still has original seat, no idea of make or model

verktyg

I'd clean it up first and do a quick tuneup.

Change the cables and brake pads.

There are some nice tires on the market plus get a more comfortable seat.

Gel seat are OK for short rides or mountain biking where you are continually on and off the bike. After 5-10 miles you start sinking into get saddles.

For a bike your size I'd recommend 700x28c or 27x1 1/4" tires.

Ride it for a while and if you still like it then repaint it. You can get decals for it on eBay.

scozim

Heck, tune it up and ride it as is. You should see one of the French bikes I ride - it's missing most of the paint on the right chainstay and has nicks and scratches all over. The color is something I've only seen on a few other bikes so I've left it alone.

Frankly, I don't know that I've seen a lot of silver Gitanes - least not in my "neck of the woods".

NebraskaGuy

I appreciate the input. I do plan on riding it. I was a little unclear on the original post - I'm the original owner. I remember back when I used to haul it up to my dorm room on my shoulder and hang it on a hook on the wall. I saw it sitting in my basement and I just had to bring it out and ride it. It's always been a lively and fun bike to ride. New tires, lube job and tune up are definitely in the plan. A friend here says to make it comfortable - get a better saddle and modern pedals. Those toe straps are not fun for an old guy like me.

verktyg

Pretty bikes tend not to get ridden than much! Confused

I put the most miles on my slightly beat up bikes. There's no worry about getting them dirty or scratched up! Cool