RADBMX.CO.UK
Technical & Reference Section => Tech and Restoration => Topic started by: dinglem on December 22, 2013, 02:23 PM
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Having been hunting for one of these for many years I finally collected this a few days ago. Pretty chuffed to say the least!! ;D
Does anybody have any sizing information? It has a top tube around 18.3inches in length.
The chrome is in perfect condition too, so at least i can retain the original finish.
(the front wheel looks close to the frame in the pics as the forks were on backwards for transport).
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_2239a_zps30cf9956.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_2239a_zps30cf9956.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_2241_zpscc7a2939.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_2241_zpscc7a2939.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_2242a_zps4ccf5a9f.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_2242a_zps4ccf5a9f.jpg.html)
Does anybody have any leads for sticker sets and pad sets? Is Del still around?
Cheers,
Martin.
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Hi Martin, welcome to Rad.
That's a very nice, and rare frame set you've got there, looks lovely. I've only ever seen a few in the 5 years I've been a collector. I like them for their simplicity.
Del has gone a boy quiet, it maybe better to email him directly. As for the pads, again Steve's very busy so emailing him directly too maybe the best option. :daumenhoch:
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Steve ( animal ) is the man he'll know I'm sure he'll also be well jell you've got this :)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1)
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Nice find mate, always a buzz when you get something you've been after for a long time.
Adam
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that is lovely,what a score!!! :smitten:
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Nice score, :daumenhoch:
If you're interested I have a genuine nos and a used BW padset in my spares.
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Very nice frameset dude, looks great :daumenhoch:
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Very nice score :daumenhoch:
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Nice one. :daumenhoch:
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Thanks guys, I'm pretty chuffed to say the least! I found it for sale on a mountain biking forum - just did a Google images search on Birmingham Wheels and up popped the images.... followed the link and hey presto!
I used to ride at Wheels BITD so this is my holy grail :)
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Very nice that is.
What forks are fitted to it ?
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Not sure about the forks; they have a tear-drop stamped out of the drop outs...?
I have a nice set of race forks to go on to it when the build starts though ;)
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Cool !
Lovely score that !
And welcome to Radbmx
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Not sure about the forks; they have a tear-drop stamped out of the drop outs...?
I have a nice set of race forks to go on to it when the build starts though ;)
Got a picture of them ?
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Not a great photo...
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/forks001_zpsf2ee08f6.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/forks001_zpsf2ee08f6.jpg.html)
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These are all of the Wheels examples I have been able to find online. I would love some frame measurements to be ascertained for each of the different frame designs:-
MINI (short top tube (EDIT - am told they are 16.5inch) and large looptail):-
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/mybrumwheelsebay_zpse196ca8c.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/mybrumwheelsebay_zpse196ca8c.jpg.html)
Another forum member sent me this photo on the 27/01/14; we believe this Mini to be the same frame as the one shown above - TT length confirmed at 16.5inches. Note that the small bar present on the other models joining the front part of the lower looptails is absent.
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_3444_zps120dde33.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_3444_zps120dde33.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_3445_zpsfda87002.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_3445_zpsfda87002.jpg.html)
24 inch CRUISER:-
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/cruiser_zps6e7fdd29.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/cruiser_zps6e7fdd29.jpg.html)
PRO - Lower top tube (20 inches in length) but taller seat post tube. All came in a factory painted finish (unconfirmed):-
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/8563750651_798ece07a5_b_zps05c71987.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/8563750651_798ece07a5_b_zps05c71987.jpg.html)
I believe the above and below pics are actually the same bike.
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/p3pb1909322_zps0a11bfdc.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/p3pb1909322_zps0a11bfdc.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/andanother_zps2eb6c54a.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/andanother_zps2eb6c54a.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/andyetanother_zpsefcfc84a.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/andyetanother_zpsefcfc84a.jpg.html)
The below bike is frame number 137:-
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/pink_zps60669576.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/pink_zps60669576.jpg.html)
EXPERT - 'Higher' top tube (18.5inches in length) but lower seat tube (BB to top tube length 9.1inches). All came in a factory chrome finish:-
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/another_zps91ed68d5.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/another_zps91ed68d5.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/ncewheels_zpsc78ed8af.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/ncewheels_zpsc78ed8af.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/img16_zpse7c8e96e.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/img16_zpse7c8e96e.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMGP3118_zpsfca8218a.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMGP3118_zpsfca8218a.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/dazpic157_zpscd228d3f.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/dazpic157_zpscd228d3f.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/birminghamwheelsbike007_zpsafd96398.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/birminghamwheelsbike007_zpsafd96398.jpg.html)
Found another photo online (26/12/13)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/birminghamwheels001_zpsfd0ce76a.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/birminghamwheels001_zpsfd0ce76a.jpg.html)
...and contacted another owner on the 17/01/14 who has owned this frame from new - purchased from the Wheels workshop and watched the decals being applied (it was chrome with black decals back then).
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/originalownerPROframe_zpse2f63fb7.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/originalownerPROframe_zpse2f63fb7.jpg.html)
...and here's another, added on 8/2/14. This is frame serial number 515 and was sourced from Belgium, with an original decals sheet. It has exposed brazed welds and even shows Reynolds stamping on the downtube and top tube. Nice example!!:-
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/brazedwheels515_zpsb8aff9c3.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/brazedwheels515_zpsb8aff9c3.jpg.html)
..and then mine as pictured above and also here:-
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_1951a_zps6c9defbb.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_1951a_zps6c9defbb.jpg.html)
Sorry if i'm not allowed to post pictures that i haven't taken...?? Anybody got any measurements for the other frame sizes?
Cheers Martin.
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forks are tioga?? ???
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Great score
I have three bw's in my collection a mini an expert and
A cruiser just need a pro but no luck after 5 years of looking
Looks like your's is an expert frame,bw didn't make forks and used tange forks
So I would think the forks are original to the frame :daumenhoch:
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Great score
I have three bw's in my collection a mini an expert and
A cruiser just need a pro but no luck after 5 years of looking
Looks like your's is an expert frame,bw didn't make forks and used tange forks
So I would think the forks are original to the frame :daumenhoch:
Hi mate - wow, great information! Are any of yours pictured above(?) and could you possibly confirm the frame dimensions of your various frames please? There is almost zero information out there on Brum Wheels frames from what i can tell. Are the ones with the taller looking seat post tubes Pro frames then?
Thanks again for your reply.
Martin.
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here's a link to my cruiser build :daumenhoch:
http://www.radbmx.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,167234.msg1673078.html#msg1673078
i just measured my expert and it's 18 1/2" and my mini is 16 1/2"
birmingham wheels rarely did adverts in magazines,they called them birmingham wheels project
because they were set up as a centre to teach wayward kids new skills the frames were
designed and built by top frame builder howard darby :daumenhoch:
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here's a link to my cruiser build :daumenhoch:
http://www.radbmx.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,167234.msg1673078.html#msg1673078
i just measured my expert and it's 18 1/2" and my mini is 16 1/2"
birmingham wheels rarely did adverts in magazines,they called them birmingham wheels project
because they were set up as a centre to teach wayward kids new skills the frames were
designed and built by top frame builder howard darby :daumenhoch:
Great! Thanks for the info.
Mine is definitely an Expert then :4_17_5:
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here's a link to my cruiser build :daumenhoch:
http://www.radbmx.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,167234.msg1673078.html#msg1673078
i just measured my expert and it's 18 1/2" and my mini is 16 1/2"
birmingham wheels rarely did adverts in magazines,they called them birmingham wheels project
because they were set up as a centre to teach wayward kids new skills the frames were
designed and built by top frame builder howard darby :daumenhoch:
That Cruiser is gorgeous btw!!!! "wantit"
Where did you get the sticker set from if you don't mind me asking???
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Love it. A great find. :)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1)
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welcome to RAD , great find, and what away to say hello .... very rare frame thanks for sharing :daumenhoch:
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welcome to RAD , great find, and what away to say hello .... very rare frame thanks for sharing :daumenhoch:
Many thanks for all of the welcomes on here... i'm a long time lurker... ;)
I think my earlier post pretty much covers the majority of the known BW frames, so yes, very rare!!!! I got very very lucky indeed ;D
I'll keep the thread going once the restoration and rebuild gets underway.
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welcome to RAD , great find, and what away to say hello .... very rare frame thanks for sharing :daumenhoch:
Many thanks for all of the welcomes on here... i'm a long time lurker... ;)
I think my earlier post pretty much covers the majority of the known BW frames, so yes, very rare!!!! I got very very lucky indeed ;D
I'll keep the thread going once the restoration and rebuild gets underway.
Martin, in reply to your pm, I'm sorry mate, I don't have Del's number, one of the moderators will though, no doubt. :daumenhoch:
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A nice bike and a great find - especially as it's something you've been after for ages. There was a really nice BW at the Chest-Air ride this year. I was speaking to the guy who owned it for a bit & he was a nice bloke - can't remember his name/username though!
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A nice bike and a great find - especially as it's something you've been after for ages. There was a really nice BW at the Chest-Air ride this year. I was speaking to the guy who owned it for a bit & he was a nice bloke - can't remember his name/username though!
Paul Browning, not sure of his username either. ::)
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That's him Dan. Nice bloke I seem to recall
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A nice bike and a great find - especially as it's something you've been after for ages. There was a really nice BW at the Chest-Air ride this year. I was speaking to the guy who owned it for a bit & he was a nice bloke - can't remember his name/username though!
Nice to hear there are still some out and about :)
I am really chuffed to have found this - the last one i saw i was riding back in the early 80's! I was at Wheels and was loaned one for a spin around the track; i have never forgotten it. Red decals and red Skyways. It really stood out against all of the other race bikes running spokes at that time. I wonder who the original owner was and whether that bike still exists?
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Here's a better shot of the forks that came with it. They have 'JT Racing USA' decals on both sides.
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_2257_zps059df7f6.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_2257_zps059df7f6.jpg.html)
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Great score :4_17_5:
I'd be tempted to keep all the original bits on it (inc the forks).
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Great score :4_17_5:
I'd be tempted to keep all the original bits on it (inc the forks).
Yeah - i think i have found them described here:-
http://bmxmuseum.com/bikes/tioga/64671
http://www.ozbmx.com.au/index.php'showtopic=45838
Perhaps i should retain them for the build as you say. ;D
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iam not into race :-[ but i do like these frames mate :daumenhoch: good luck with the build ;)
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Very nice "wantit"
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Some great comments about this frame here - thanks guys ;D
I managed to find a little time to strip a few of the components off it yesterday, and also gave the frame a quick check-over and polish. There are no dings, dents or scratches in the chrome to speak of, so the original finish can definitely be retained. It isn't 100% at this stage but a bit of elbow grease (and maybe an attempt at the coke/silver foil trick?) should bring it up nicely i think. The drop-outs are pretty much perfect too :daumenhoch:
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_1950a_zps5fc2061d.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_1950a_zps5fc2061d.jpg.html)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_1952a_zpsd6d71e09.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_1952a_zpsd6d71e09.jpg.html)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_1948a_zps0dde5814.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_1948a_zps0dde5814.jpg.html)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_1951a_zps6c9defbb.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_1951a_zps6c9defbb.jpg.html)
The forks are Tioga Max Flo Aero which were made by Tange and so can also be presumed to be original.
I've also noticed that the Reynolds 531 sticker mentions that this frame uses the Butted Reynolds tubing; information on the BMXMuseum site indicates that either plain gauge or more expensive Butted options were available, so it looks like butted tubing was used for this frame. All of the repro Reynolds 531 decals appear to be without the Butted option annotated from what i can gather, unless somebody knows any different?
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_1918a_zps4d49efaa.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_1918a_zps4d49efaa.jpg.html)
Everything had obviously been well greased prior to the last build as i had no issues whatsoever when stripping her down. Once the seat post clamp (MX hinged) had been released the post just pulled out by hand with minimal effort. It is a tidy looking Shimano DX item in nice condition.
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/seatpost_zpsee9e6f3b.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/seatpost_zpsee9e6f3b.jpg.html)
The cranks initially appeared to be Sugino CT 175's, but will require a rechrome. (Not sure about that spider though? Anyone??)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_1921_zpsbc46c400.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_1921_zpsbc46c400.jpg.html)
The wheels are super-skinny UKAI 20 x 1 1/8 items on silver Suzue hubs. They do look a bit funky but they seem to suit the lightweight racer feel of the bike. They are definitely growing on me anyway....
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_1940_zps7b6644b8.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_1940_zps7b6644b8.jpg.html)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_1939a_zps00d73555.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_1939a_zps00d73555.jpg.html)
I'm not too sure what i will retain and what i will replace, but there are some nice components there and it seems a shame to change some items which could potentially have been from the original race build. The more i look at it and now i've looked beyond the frame and at the other components the more i think i got a bit of a bargain!! :daumenhoch:
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Well, i have just contacted another Birmingham Wheels owner, who has sent me the following picture of his frame. I have already added this to the full listing on page 1 of this thread for reference and to keep the full known Wheels listing complete.
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/originalownerPROframe_zpse2f63fb7.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/originalownerPROframe_zpse2f63fb7.jpg.html)
What is interesting is that this guy is the original owner, having purchased the frame directly from the Birmingham Wheels workshop back in the day. He states that this frame (with the lower seat post tube) is actually a 'Pro' frame size as this is what he ordered.
At that time this frame was chrome and he actually watched the black decals being added to his frame by Trev Robinson.
I was under the impression that the frames with the taller seat post tube were 'Pro' frames and the one pictured with the shorter seat post tube was an 'Expert', but this info contradicts this. I am still after the top tube lengths on the frames with the longer (higher) seat posts tubes and also the BB to top tube lengths for reference and comparison.
Anybody got this info?
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Cool find
But don't take the OG stickers off it pleaseeeeeeee :'(
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Cool find
But don't take the OG stickers off it pleaseeeeeeee :'(
Thanks - i'm pretty chuffed with it!!! 8)
I've already gathered quite a few parts for the build, have retained many that came with it and simply cleaned them up, and managed to get a load of information from old Wheels Team riders whom i've tracked down/Fb-stalked, including some great period Birmingham Wheels race photies :Great_Britain:
Just waiting on their permission before posting them up :4_17_5:
I'm not too sure the Wheels stickers are the originals, well not the ORIGINAL originals anyway. The guy i bought it off was telling me a story about how he got some replacement stickers for it by going to see some guy about the frame 15+ years ago and during the conversation he pulled a set of decals out of a drawer for him, but to be honest i was so excited about how little he was asking for the frame i think my brain was filtering out all of the peripheral sound...! I was so excited i wasn't really listening. I have just emailed him after reading your comment so hopefully he can re-tell the story. So they might be, they might not. Depends if he ever used the new set. Or, they might be an original set of Wheels decals but not the original ones to the bike.... if you know what i mean. Will let you know.
The battle-scarred decals on the downtube are actually probably good enough to retain, thinking about it.... Undecided.
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Ok – I just heard back from the guy I bought the Birmingham Wheels frame from.
He has owned if for over 20 years, having picked it up from a car boot sale with the intention of looking for something nippy to use for bike polo(!) Having immediately been offered 50pounds for it by a guy from a Midlands bike shop (Bike Pro, Yardley), and once he realized what it was he called into the estate office at the Birmingham Wheels Park and spoke to a guy there; he said they still had some decals ‘floating around in a drawer’ so gave him a set, and the ones still present on this frame are that set. The Reynolds sticker is the original that was on the bike when he bought it.
So, they are ‘original’ Birmingham Wheels decals, but not the original ones to the bike.
He has not used it for over 15 years, during which time it has been stashed away in his loft before he eventually decided to sell it. So that's established a little bit of history about this particular frame.
One forum member has also sent me some pictures of his Birmingham Wheels Mini which I have now added to the full known frames listing on page 1 of this thread. He also sent a few cool period adverts which he has kindly said I am free to post :coolsmiley:
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/845d9e49-9866-4f9f-8b92-1302a2b20970_zps0c47fbcc.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/845d9e49-9866-4f9f-8b92-1302a2b20970_zps0c47fbcc.jpg.html)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/53c065ae-84a0-4e2e-95a8-72a1bc2f9eef_zps03ab70f5.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/53c065ae-84a0-4e2e-95a8-72a1bc2f9eef_zps03ab70f5.jpg.html)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/2966a810-a846-4cc7-9812-607c291b0839_zps3c4aad73.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/2966a810-a846-4cc7-9812-607c291b0839_zps3c4aad73.jpg.html)
From a recent thread on this forum I have also seemingly discovered what the curious original cranks are that came with the bike, as pictured earlier in the thread. I thought they looked a lot like Sugino CT’s but the spider was all wrong, having a small tear-drop pattern on the relatively thin arms; turns out they are Hanabishi, made in Japan in the early 80's:-
http://bmxmuseum.com/bikes/skyway/64537/2
http://bmxmuseum.com/bikes/se_racing/62038/2
http://bmxmuseum.com/bikes/schauff/9776/1
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Well after almost giving up on ID-ing the cranks that came on my WHEELS bike I have stumbled across the answer... many thanks to 'dirtskirt' on this forum as he posted up about his own set of cranks which turned out to be the same as mine as pictured above.
They are Hanabishi cranks, dating from the early 80's. Nice looking and very unusual cranks when well finished and as i am assuming they were from the original build i will be retaining them (after a bit of a tidy up). I had already taken them off the bike as i was unable to ID them, so i am really chuffed to have found out what they are. ;D ;D ;D
Mine as they arrived:-
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_1946_zps17f60096.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_1946_zps17f60096.jpg.html)
Some tidier examples with the correct decals:-
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/1002_blowup_zps0d8a16b8.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/1002_blowup_zps0d8a16b8.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/hanabishi_zps499a4cf2.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/hanabishi_zps499a4cf2.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/Hanabishi002_zpsb52fe150.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/Hanabishi002_zpsb52fe150.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/Hanabishi001_zpsacbfe2c3.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/Hanabishi001_zpsacbfe2c3.jpg.html)
The next thing I will be after is a black 44T Takagi (130) chain ring if anybody has one floating around??? :daumenhoch:
Apart from that I am still tracking down a few other parts, but the bare bones of the build are coming together nicely :daumenhoch:
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I've started gathering some of the parts required for the rebuild now, and some of the original bits and pieces have gone off to be cleaned and polished also. I had been after a 44T Takagi (130) chainring and managed to snaffle one on the Bay last week, so that's another thing ticked off my list.
I have also managed to get hold of a decals set (thanks Del!), and the NOS WHEELS padset mentioned in an earlier posting by 'Spartacus' arrived this morning :daumenhoch: :daumenhoch: :daumenhoch:
I am particularly chuffed to get my hands on that original padset!!! "wantit"
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/decalsWHEELS_zps54d17d78.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/decalsWHEELS_zps54d17d78.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/padsetWHEELS02_zpseb5597ea.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/padsetWHEELS02_zpseb5597ea.jpg.html)
Del has also made me up a set of Hanabishi decals for my cranks so they should be finished off nicely also. I just need to correct crank caps now.... anybody??
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/Hanabishidecals_zps081a10be.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/Hanabishidecals_zps081a10be.jpg.html)
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Cool thread and some great info.
These bikes are very similar to MRD in fact I think they were the inspiration for MRD race bikes.
Can't wait to see this finished you are doing a great job :daumenhoch:
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I've just about finished mine, chrome was shot so had it removed and the raw finish polished to keep the braze exposed,hoping to take it back to Birmingham next Saturday on wazzas ride, just need a shim for the seatpost (and a chain)lol. Tubes are stamped Reynolds butted which is cool. Awesome decals from Del as always.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/02/08/a8ygehyz.jpg)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/02/08/de3ebazy.jpg)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/02/08/7ugapema.jpg)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/02/08/yha9aquj.jpg)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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That looks awesome mate - nice 1. "wantit"
I can't wait to see mine finished now!
Will drop you a PM shortly...
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Spence, that is lush fella.
I have a seat post shim, but won't be able to post till next Sat, so too late for you pal. ::)
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Spence, that is lush fella.
I have a seat post shim, but won't be able to post till next Sat, so too late for you pal. ::)
Cheers Dan that's awesome, I'll let ya know mate, I'll try n grab one in the week so can take on the brum ride, if not it won't be going home just yet :'( :LolLolLolLol:
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You know I'm almost certain I had one of these as a kid. I bought it off someone for £5 and it was spray painted loads of different colours DIY style. I was told at the time it was a Birmingham wheels frame and I was almost embarrased to be riding it. Especially when my dad bought me white tyres to go on it. As I've been looking into building an old bike it amazes me how many parts and frames I used to have in the shed that I was just given or traded. All been thrown out when I could have saved myself a fortune or made a fortune.
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Love this bike and build!! Can't wait to see how it turns out!
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Love this bike and build!! Can't wait to see how it turns out!
Not much progress recently as I've been away from home for the past month, although there has been a steady flow of parcels landing on the doormat :daumenhoch:
I almost have everything i need to start the build-up now.
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Great thread this :daumenhoch:
Cool bike, be nice to see it finished :coolsmiley:
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OK, so here are a few awesome period race shots of members of the Birmingham WHEELS team in action!! I am loosely basing my build around these photographs as they all seem to have a nice lightweight look about them. Note that they all appear to be running on skinnies, and in some cases have black padsets. One example shows a black frame with chrome forks. The bike in the first photo also seems to have cranks very similar to the Hanabishi items that came on my frame.
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/DeanBatesoninactiononaWheels001_zps7c93c3cb.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/DeanBatesoninactiononaWheels001_zps7c93c3cb.jpg.html)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/DeanBatesoninactiononaWheels002_zps7bb5f6af.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/DeanBatesoninactiononaWheels002_zps7bb5f6af.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/DeanBatesoninactiononaWheels003_zps129e0744.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/DeanBatesoninactiononaWheels003_zps129e0744.jpg.html)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/DeanBatesoninactiononaWheels004_zpsf3538d40.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/DeanBatesoninactiononaWheels004_zpsf3538d40.jpg.html)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/DeanBatesoninactiononaWheels005_zpsc1a02005.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/DeanBatesoninactiononaWheels005_zpsc1a02005.jpg.html)
This is WHEELS team rider Ant Butt, stood next to his special edition WHEELS frame which came in a gold finish with red parts. There appears to be a second gold WHEELS bike in the background, also with red parts "wantit"
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/AntoButt002goldWheels_zps76642e1a.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/AntoButt002goldWheels_zps76642e1a.jpg.html)
I wonder where those gold frames are now....
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pics of my my expert :daumenhoch:
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/y77/sawzall717/mrdwhitehawkrebelbirminghamwheel-15.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/user/sawzall717/media/mrdwhitehawkrebelbirminghamwheel-15.jpg.html)
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^^^ That looks fantastic mate! :daumenhoch:
Is that one of the built-up ones on Page1 of this thread or is it another one for me to add? Do you have the serial number (or mind sharing it?)
Chrome looks great - is it the original finish or a re-chrome?
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:welcome
That is very cool 8)
I would keep the decals on if original. :daumenhoch:
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:welcome
That is very cool 8)
I would keep the decals on if original. :daumenhoch:
Hi mate - many thanks for the welcome! I've been around on the RAD forum for a while, just not posted much until now....
I am still deliberating about those decals as although they are original WHEELS decals they aren't the original ones for the frame. I tried to explain it (probably rather poorly) in an earlier post, but they are definitely from the Birmingham WHEELS office from BITD. Quite a few people have told me the same thing though, that i should retain them.
I might finish the build, add the missing repro decals and see how it looks with those originals on the downtube still in place before making up my mind... or will post on here for a bit of a vote!!
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^^^ That looks fantastic mate! :daumenhoch:
Is that one of the built-up ones on Page1 of this thread or is it another one for me to add? Do you have the serial number (or mind sharing it?)
Chrome looks great - is it the original finish or a re-chrome?
it's original chrome :daumenhoch:
i will get the frame number sorted ;)
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:4_17_5: ...a few items have arrived through the post recently, the latest being a set of hubs :2funny:
NOS black and chrome Tioga MX402 sealed headset and black Tange locking nut:-
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/P1040144_zps3ae95ed9.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/P1040144_zps3ae95ed9.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/headset002_zpscb032cad.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/headset002_zpscb032cad.jpg.html)
A pair of NOS uber-rare (and utterly bonkers) Vector Ultimate PV-1 pedals (with both 1/2inch and 9/16 spindles). I'd never seen a set of these in the flesh before, and never seen pics of them in an unpainted factory finish:-
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/P1040099a_zpscf7fff27.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/P1040099a_zpscf7fff27.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/P1040100a_zpsd95dcfac.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/P1040100a_zpsd95dcfac.jpg.html)
Son-Lites :smitten:
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/P1040146_zps71268e5b.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/P1040146_zps71268e5b.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/P1040148_zps69063d25.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/P1040148_zps69063d25.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/P1040150_zps493ec99b.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/P1040150_zps493ec99b.jpg.html)
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Nice mate. 8)
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If Batman had ridden a BMX, I'm sure those pedals would've been on it!! :daumenhoch:
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Yeah, the pedals are a bit crazy but I love them! So unusual and amazingly light. I have no idea what they are made of... Anybody know?
I am currently waiting on a few bits and pieces to come back from the polishers/chromers before starting the build-up, plus I am about to send off the hubs and rims for lacing.
I also sourced a lovely NOS Shotgun II seat in black which I am waiting to be delivered. I will add a few more pics shortly :)
Slow but steady progress!
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Awesome build thread :daumenhoch:
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Here's a few shots of the seatpost... now polished up and with black decals to match the colour scheme of the bike.
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_2322_zps466d44e3.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_2322_zps466d44e3.jpg.html)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_2324_zpsca2619a6.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_2324_zpsca2619a6.jpg.html)
Still waiting on this to be delivered... never seen one this nice before!
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_2332_zpseb05a9f8.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_2332_zpseb05a9f8.jpg.html)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_2331_zpsc93bba1f.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_2331_zpsc93bba1f.jpg.html)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_2333_zpsf9e94b29.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_2333_zpsf9e94b29.jpg.html)
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Awesome thread. Love the parts for it.
Should be a real stunner 8) :daumenhoch:
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This is going to be an awesome bike when built, that Shot Gun looks amazing. :coolsmiley:
I'm unsure about those pedals though. :-\
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Am loving this thread, but I am with our Danno regarding the pedals. Rare as they may be, they do t look at all right for the bike, IMHO. :-\
Really enjoying the piccies of the red and yellow airtex Team Wheels racing Jerseys; I had one my dad bought me, and I distinctly remember it costing a fiver, which back in 1982 / 1983 (can't remember when, exactly) was a hell of a lot of money, especially for my folks. Unfortunately, it didn't make my BH California no my lighter! :idiot2:
Great thread, mate; cheers! :4_17_5:
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I'm actually quite surprised it has taken this long for somebody to mention the pedals; they are a bit funky, I agree. We'll see how they look when tidied up and fitted.
I also have a Plan B ;)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpscce5c0db.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpscce5c0db.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zps1032d545.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zps1032d545.jpg.html)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsef48a07d.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsef48a07d.jpg.html)
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I'm actually quite surprised it has taken this long for somebody to mention the pedals; they are a bit funky, I agree. We'll see how they look when tidied up and fitted.
I also have a Plan B ;)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpscce5c0db.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpscce5c0db.jpg.html)
(http://www.radbmx.co.uk/archive/albums/ac356/dinglem/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zps1032d545.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zps1032d545.jpg.html)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsef48a07d.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsef48a07d.jpg.html)
That's a pretty nice back up plan too mate. :daumenhoch:
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I think this is going to be one of my favourite builds. I really like those pedals on their own - It will be interesting to see what they look like when it's all done. Looking great so far - That Shotgun seat really stands out
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I think this is going to be one of my favourite builds. I really like those pedals on their own - It will be interesting to see what they look like when it's all done. Looking great so far - That Shotgun seat really stands out
Thanks for that matey. I am trying to add a few of my own favourite parts where I can whilst staying as close as possible to what seems to be the original build. I'm excited to see it finished myself!!
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and that headset is like the Fonz - 8)
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Seat post looks great ding :) like everyone has said this is going to be a great looking bike when done......very nice set of back up pedals and you know where to get rid of those ugly looking vector pedals LOL..... :D if you decide to go plan b.
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Seat post looks great ding :) like everyone has said this is going to be a great looking bike when done......very nice set of back up pedals and you know where to get rid of those ugly looking vector pedals LOL..... :D if you decide to go plan b.
Haha! Yes mate, had a few messages interested in the PV-1 pedals should I not use them already! They are so light though, and that is just what I am after so I can see me using them tbh. Dare to be different and all that. We shall see! All the parts have come together nicely now. All I need is the chain and I'm done.
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Well not too much progress with the WHEELS build recently. I have stripped the remains of the JT Racing decals from the forks, as well as the remnants of what i presume was the original WHEELS head tube sticker (although i noted the exact position). All that was left was a plain silver circle. I have also removed the old headset and replaced it with the NOS Tioga item i posted previously. Looks very good!
The Shot Gun II arrived through the post and turned out to be just as good as it appeared in the pics. It's awesome, and literally mint, with an '82 date stamp on the underside :daumenhoch:
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_2481_zps7e59e870.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_2481_zps7e59e870.jpg.html)
I've also taken in a heap of parts to ACF Howell in Walsall for polishing and/or rechroming. Bars, brake components, the Hanabishi cranks that came with the frame, and the PV-1 pedals along with other bits and pieces. Hopefully they should be ready for collection in the next couple of weeks.
The DX pedals are also even better than i expected, again being super-mint. I am starting to feel somewhat torn between using them and the PV-1's now, especially as the DX's are original in black so would match the build perfectly (and go with the seat post) and i could then use the shiny PV-1's on my next (blue framed) build which i am also in the pre-planning phase of. Hmmm?
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_2477_zps9eca4089.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_2477_zps9eca4089.jpg.html)
(http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac356/dinglem/IMG_2478_zps160bd344.jpg) (http://s915.photobucket.com/user/dinglem/media/IMG_2478_zps160bd344.jpg.html)
I guess i will try both sets of pedals on the bike and see what i think then.
The hubs and rims have also gone off to a very helpful member of this forum to be laced up so i am very excited about seeing them, especially as i have just heard that they are currently underway :coolsmiley:
That's about all for the time being... i think once i have everything back it will build-up pretty quickly!
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Looking good Martin!! :4_17_5:
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This is going to be sweet . :4_17_5:
I kinda like those crazy pedals ... :daumenhoch:
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This is going to be sweet . :4_17_5:
I kinda like those crazy pedals ... :daumenhoch:
Yeah - I love them! So light, yet quite large at the same time. They will be going onto either this build or possibly my next one.... depending how they turn out when mounted. They look different, and different is GOOD! 8)
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This is going to be sweet . :4_17_5:
I kinda like those crazy pedals ... :daumenhoch:
Yeah - I love them! So light, yet quite large at the same time. They will be going onto either this build or possibly my next one.... depending how they turn out when mounted. They look different, and different is GOOD! 8)
I tried to tell our lass that different is good, when I suggested brown love. ::)
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I've been trying to get Photobucket to work but I am overseas working currently so can't access it... anyway, I've just found out there is the attachments option below (dur!) so I will use that instead.... not sure whether it'll work but there we go...
I have received some shots of my laced wheels and am really chuffed with how they have turned out :daumenhoch:
I recently sent the hubs, rims and tyres off to RAD member ‘Steve69’ who has kindly worked his magic on them and with a very swift turn-around indeed has sent me the finished shots, which I think look fantastic.
As I have previously mentioned I love the look of skinnies, and also decided to stick with the rim size that came on the bike when I found it, and also what the ex-WHEELS riders told me they had predominantly raced on BITD. I opted for a race-oriented radial lacing on the front with a half radial/3X lacing on the rear, with NOS black UKAI skinny rims. That combo, with the Son-Lites I recently scored from the US, seems to have worked a treat and I cannot wait to see how they are going to look when mounted.
We toyed with the use of black nipples, but eventually settled on silver.
[attachment=1]
Here's the front wheel, radially-laced.
[attachment=2]
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Here's the finished half-radial rear.
[attachment=1]
[attachment=2]
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...and both together 8)
[attachment=1]
[attachment=2]
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Sweet!!! Good old Steve! :4_17_5:
....... and Martin, your missus has lovely puppies!!!! "wantit"
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Coming along nicely Mart, nice thought taken with the details. :coolsmiley:
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Sweet!!! Good old Steve! :4_17_5:
....... and Martin, your missus has lovely puppies!!!! "wantit"
^^ True story! :LolLolLolLol:
Here's a Rottie puppy for starters. That is what you meant, right? ;)
[attachment=1]
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oh boy........ :shocked: >:D :police:
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This is a build thread just keeps giving :shocked:
The wheels look awesome as well!!! ;) ;D
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The wheels look soooooo good with the son lights on them, moving on, fast looking forward to that finished pic. :D :daumenhoch:
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Well i collected the last of my chroming today and am excited about starting the build-up phase :daumenhoch:
The cranks came out brilliantly and i have already added the Hanabishi decals (thanks Del!)
The PV-1 pedals didn't come out as planned at all though, so that pretty much decides my pedal choice; i will be going for the black Shimano DX option mentioned previously and will get the PV-1's stripped again for my subsequent build. I was thinking pretty much along those lines anyway...
Here's a shot of the refurbished cranks for starters...
[attachment=1]
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Well i collected the last of my chroming today and am excited about starting the build-up phase :daumenhoch:
The cranks came out brilliantly and i have already added the Hanabishi decals (thanks Del!)
The PV-1 pedals didn't come out as planned at all though, so that pretty much decides my pedal choice; i will be going for the black Shimano DX option mentioned previously and will get the PV-1's stripped again for my subsequent build. I was thinking pretty much along those lines anyway...
Here's a shot of the refurbished cranks for starters...
[attachment=1]
Wowzers, they look stunning.
I was wondering about this build lady week.
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Bit of polishing and a few decals added today. I am having extreme trouble dealing with the rough original decals on the down tube though, i must admit :-\
[attachment=1]
[attachment=2]
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Love it. :smitten:
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Couple of Jam Buttie goodies :daumenhoch:
[attachment=1]
Polished BB cups in, Jam Buttie seat post clamp on and the seat post in (currently set at maximum height).
[attachment=2]
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:coolsmiley:
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Looking great! These frames are really cool. Love the decal design too - pure 80's!
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Really Looking forward to seeing this finished. My brum wheels is gonna be up for sale really soon as needs must
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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dib dobs if it's a pro frame :daumenhoch:
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This is a lovely build Mart and I'm not a big race fan :daumenhoch:
Pm'd you about a nice little jam buttie project I'm doing that may suit your build ;)
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Thanks for all of the comments so far guys :)
Here's a bit of an unusual update to the thread... look what happened at the weekend! :daumenhoch:
[attachment=1]
[attachment=2]
[attachment=3]
[attachment=4]
Thanks to Spence I now have a pair of these lovely WHEELS frames. So chuffed ;D
It also means I can take the chrome frame in a slightly different direction and use some of the other parts for the second build.
The frame also came with an uber-rare original decals sheet, complete with the dealer logo. I have seen the remains of this very same decal set and logo on a pair of frames on the BMXMuseum. Not sure i will be brave enough to use them....
[attachment=5]
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What a lovely pair ;)
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This is mega Mart, just when you think that this hobby is at it's peak with the surprise factor, then you add a post to a build thread like this.
Great stuff mate. :4_17_5:
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Yeah, I'm well happy ;D
I jumped at it when Spence said he was considering selling, and he was even kind enough to deliver it himself. Top man.
Having two means I can build a conservative one using the original padset and decals colours, and then be a little more adventurous with the other one. That original padset I have was limiting my options a little (basically meaning black components) as I just had to use it! Build number 2 will be based around the WHEELS bike I once rode around the WHEELS track BITD :daumenhoch:
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Subscribed! :daumenhoch:
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Fantastic to see 2 of these frame sets get the treatment they deserve,here is a updated pic of mine,you have an old pic on the first page of this thread (13th down) since it was taken the Bars,Seat,Seatclamp,Stem,Pads & Brake Set have changed.
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee43/jp_rebel/3e0994b9-1c33-4f34-93a7-7fbc1e5d88e3.jpg) (http://s228.photobucket.com/user/jp_rebel/media/3e0994b9-1c33-4f34-93a7-7fbc1e5d88e3.jpg.html)
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:smitten:
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That's a lovely looking bike, the gold bits and that padset look mint. :smitten:
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(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee43/jp_rebel/3e0994b9-1c33-4f34-93a7-7fbc1e5d88e3.jpg) (http://s228.photobucket.com/user/jp_rebel/media/3e0994b9-1c33-4f34-93a7-7fbc1e5d88e3.jpg.html)
That is flippin' gorgeous!! :smitten:
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Here's a better shot of the original 80's decal set that came with my second frame, complete with Dutch dealer logo.
[attachment=1]
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This build is going to be pretty spectacular.
What stem and bars are you fitting?
I love skinnys on a Pro build :smitten:
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That's a very good question mate. I was going to go against the grain a little and fit a set of 8inch rise Vector V-bars (so no stem) to keep it lightweight, as I absolutely love them (although I know others don't). I have had a set restored and re-chromed, but following a trial build I have discovered that they are very slightly too narrow to take the original WHEELS bar pad I have. Small factor, but I really want to use the original padset on the chrome bike, so I am now going for a set of NOS GT Santa Ana race bars instead. The bike originally came with a black Suntour stem so to retain a bit of history from the original build I will stick with that I think.
[attachment=2]
[attachment=1]
The Vector V-bars will go onto the second WHEELS build as I will be getting a repro padset made for that so will get a reduced width bar pad made. It's all on hold again for the time being unfortunately as I'm currently back en route to work again :'(
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I had the same problem with Vector standard bars, you end up with 2 redundant pads, Vector Pro bars would solve the crossbar issue. The issue I found with the Vector bars is the fixed rake which looks good or bad depending on top tube length and head tube angle, they worked well on a Vector Mark 2 but it is a bit of a lottery...
GT bars are always a great plan B.
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The Vectors do look ok actually as you say, the geometry seems to suit them. I love how they look! I'm limited by the other parts I have gone for on the first bike but can mess about with the second one a bit. I think I will need a layback to go with those Vector bars really.
I had those GT bars earmarked for my NP build, so I'm on the look out for something else unusual for that now!! Never ending! Ha!
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There's no way I was missing out on using these pads - just the one looks awesome, let alone all three :daumenhoch:
As can be seen on the jp-rebel bike above.
[attachment=1]
[attachment=2]
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now that's a frameset that I would come out of retirement for :smitten:
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As well as starting to look at the blue Natty Pro I also started a dry build on this :daumenhoch:
[attachment=1]
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Hubs look awesome!!!
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I've been looking forward to this Mart, looks mint.
The hubs are class mate. :4_17_5:
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Nice clean example :)
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I've been looking forward to this Mart, looks mint.
The hubs are class mate. :4_17_5:
Still a way to go yet, but the dry build has gone well :)
I dragged it over to the house this evening for a few pics.
Still got to sort the brake lever, fit a freewheel and then the chain, as well as the rear brake itself.
The ROE Whale Tail setup works ok as it actually sits on the looptail without the need for any drilling for the usual pin (which i wasn't intending doing anyway...) so overall i'm pretty chuffed with it so far :smitten:
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Few more pics.... Jensen approved i think... Looking more like a bike now :)
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Bike looks flimsy (nice though) the beast looks sturdy.
Top beast. :daumenhoch:
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Looks absolutely stunning Martin, love it :4_17_5:
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The skinnies certainly do make it look very lightweight, just like the team WHEELS race bikes from BITD, which is the look I was trying to replicate, as pictured earlier in the thread. I love the way they make it look fast!
Jensen (the beast) makes everything look a bit flimsy!!
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That looks stunning Mart , great build mate :4_17_5:
It looks great on the skinnies and those hubs are just awesome :smitten: "wantit"
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Martin those skinnies look fantastic on there !!!!!! even though i'm more partial to the slightly wider wheel :coolsmiley:
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Martin those skinnies look fantastic on there !!!!!! even though i'm more partial to the slightly wider wheel :coolsmiley:
Yeah, I think them being black really sets them off and visually bulks them up a bit. Love 'em! Pretty much as I found it and true to the original team bikes :slayer:
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Martin those skinnies look fantastic on there !!!!!! even though i'm more partial to the slightly wider wheel :coolsmiley:
Yeah, I think them being black really sets them off and visually bulks them up a bit. Love 'em! Pretty much as I found it and true to the original team bikes :slayer:
black makes you look skinnier and white bulks you up :whistle: ask any women, they'll tell you that :LolLolLolLol:
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Martin those skinnies look fantastic on there !!!!!! even though i'm more partial to the slightly wider wheel :coolsmiley:
Yeah, I think them being black really sets them off and visually bulks them up a bit. Love 'em! Pretty much as I found it and true to the original team bikes :slayer:
black makes you look skinnier and white bulks you up :whistle: ask any women, they'll tell you that :LolLolLolLol:
Haha! Either way the black seems to work!
I've also managed to locate a pair of genuine black Hanabishi crank caps (over in Aus) so I'm patiently waiting for them to arrive too at the moment. A small detail but it has to be right!
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Looking awesome bud ;) :4_17_5:
Who laced those wheels for ya, reckon they're done wrong!! :LolLolLolLol: :LolLolLolLol: :LolLolLolLol:
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Crazy build total quality that the son lites on the skinnies look epic must be ghe best equipped birm wheels frame as clarkson would say "IN THE WORLD"
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Looking awesome bud ;) :4_17_5:
Who laced those wheels for ya, reckon they're done wrong!! :LolLolLolLol: :LolLolLolLol: :LolLolLolLol:
You are right, I should say a big thank you to Steve69 for lacing up the wheels for this - amazing job!!
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Don't big him up Mart'!!!!!!! :LolLolLolLol:
We gonna see ya at MK buddy with a couple of nice things to show? :daumenhoch:
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Don't big him up Mart'!!!!!!! :LolLolLolLol:
We gonna see ya at MK buddy with a couple of nice things to show? :daumenhoch:
Unfortunately not mate.... I am off to Tunisia on Thursday so will miss it :( (Doubt the missus would fancy it on her own either...!)
I am hoping Steve will sort my next set of wheels for the NP build shortly - planning ahead already.
Being away for a while means i won't get to finish off the last few details on the WHEELS for a while too - just want to be able to ride it now!!
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OK bud, enjoy, sure we'll meet up soon. :daumenhoch:
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Looks nimble as hell :shocked:
Easy to imagine some kid tearing around a track on that & those hubs are mental!!!
Great to see it realized exactly as you set out to achieve 8)
One very minor thing, I'd say the Whale Tail looks surplus to requirements.
I'd maybe loose it and save even more weight!! ;)
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Looks nimble as hell :shocked:
Easy to imagine some kid tearing around a track on that & those hubs are mental!!!
Great to see it realized exactly as you set out to achieve 8)
One very minor thing, I'd say the Whale Tail looks surplus to requirements.
I'd maybe loose it and save even more weight!! ;)
Yes mate, it looks just as I pictured it.... ;D I still can't get over how light it is!!
I was about to fit some dropout savers to protect the factory chrome but then stumbled across a pair of black Whale Tails which essentially do the same job but also serve a purpose (and look kinda funky in my eyes at least) so I went for them instead. I always liked the way they looked BITD too.
I'm really chuffed with how it has turned out!
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Well these just turned up in the post today.....
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Rare as hell black Hanabishi crank dust caps. One looks pretty good but the other one has lost some of the white letter detailing. I'll have a go at tidying them up and restoring them when i get home but they will go with the colour scheme of the bike and are the correct ones for the cranks :daumenhoch:
I had a new set of shiny chrome-finish Sugino items fitted for the time being.
I'd been hoping that somebody out there had a set and eventually after much hunting somebody popped up on ozbmx and said he'd send me these for nothing so i could finish the build! ;D ;D
Small detail, but i'm chuffed to have found these and hopefully they'll come up ok with a little tlc.
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Just found this awesome pic online and had to share :)
Looks like it's one of the team special gold WHEELS frames on the right.
I'm just trying to find out who they all are at the minute. Anto But on the right though i think....
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Cool pic Mart 8)
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OK, today i stumbled across some Birmingham WHEELS research gold! The above pic that i posted earlier today was actually a still from the following video taken in 1983 at the Birmingham WHEELS track. I'll add this to the 'Video' section too now, but it sits pretty well at this point in this thread i think :daumenhoch:
Sit back and enjoy fellas!!! :smitten:
http://player.bfi.org.uk/player/watch-bmx-here-and-now-1983-154320724/p5Y3Qzbjp6cy3w-kofQEl0Ej9WiBWTrg
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OK, today i stumbled across some Birmingham WHEELS research gold! The above pic that i posted earlier today was actually a still from the following video taken in 1983 at the Birmingham WHEELS track. I'll add this to the 'Video' section too now, but it sits pretty well at this point in this thread i think :daumenhoch:
Sit back and enjoy fellas!!! :smitten:
http://player.bfi.org.uk/player/watch-bmx-here-and-now-1983-154320724/p5Y3Qzbjp6cy3w-kofQEl0Ej9WiBWTrg
Remember thrashin that track bitd 8) Thats brilliant "wantit"
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OK, today i stumbled across some Birmingham WHEELS research gold! The above pic that i posted earlier today was actually a still from the following video taken in 1983 at the Birmingham WHEELS track. I'll add this to the 'Video' section too now, but it sits pretty well at this point in this thread i think :daumenhoch:
Sit back and enjoy fellas!!! :smitten:
http://player.bfi.org.uk/player/watch-bmx-here-and-now-1983-154320724/p5Y3Qzbjp6cy3w-kofQEl0Ej9WiBWTrg
Remember thrashin that track bitd 8) Thats brilliant "wantit"
Yup - me too! Proper chuffed to have unearthed that little piece of BW treasure :Great_Britain: :Great_Britain: :Great_Britain:
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I spy Vector VC 8 bars and JMC bars there and I thing maybe their issue of GT bars :daumenhoch:
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Speaking of bars…. another update, this time involving a last-minute change-out of one of the previously fitted components.
I only recently became aware that Birmingham WHEELS also manufactured their own bars, again using either Reynolds 500 or the more expensive 530 tubing. I discovered that there has been some debate previously as to whether the BW bars were brazed or not, and as such I put this question to the ex-Birmingham WHEELS rider Antony But who confirmed there were two batches of bars made. The first were brazed but the second batch was TIG welded, and they can be identified by the Reynolds decal (if still present) in the usual bar location, zero knurling and being of a very similar style to Star Bars.
I was aware that RAD’s resident WHEELS experts Steve (‘’animal’’) and Phil (‘’Sawzall’’) both claimed to have a set of Reynolds WHEELS bars so I quizzed them also, and I was quite surprised to be offered the pair that Steve owned as he was keen to see them going onto a WHEELS build. :Great_Britain:
I have to say a very big thank you to Steve at this point - what a top bloke! He even went out of his way and dropped them round for me last night. I have sent pictures of the bars off to Anthony But who has identified them as WHEELS items so with positive feedback from him, as well as from Steve and Phil I am happy to consider them the real deal. :Great_Britain:
So the GT bars will be coming off, the ODI Tec-7 grips will get swapped and these Reynolds bars will be going on, and should compliment the build perfectly :daumenhoch:
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That's seriously a lovely build. I love the skinnies and hubs too. Bet it's gonna rip round any track. Funny how old Skool top tubes seem so short. There's no way I'd fit an original Ripper without knackering my knees! Have you ridden it yet?
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Excellent Mart, I've been following this from the start, can't wait to see the finished build. :coolsmiley:
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That's seriously a lovely build. I love the skinnies and hubs too. Bet it's gonna rip round any track. Funny how old Skool top tubes seem so short. There's no way I'd fit an original Ripper without knackering my knees! Have you ridden it yet?
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Thanks mate. It has turned out exactly as I pictured it in my mind when I started. It does look short - I haven't even sat on it yet, but then i'm not exactly the tallest either so i should hopefully be ok :daumenhoch:
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Excellent Mart, I've been following this from the start, can't wait to see the finished build. :coolsmiley:
Almost there now mate - it seems to have taken an age to gather the parts and build this up! These last few bits are proving a pain as I don't seem to be able to find the time to get it all together. I have a NOS Shimano freewheel now, and yesterday I found a left NITB Tech-3 lever in black so i bought that for it too. I've had a black and silver Izumi for ages so that's ready to go, and the rear caliper, pads and early 80's black DC cable are also ready. Got everything except the time really :-\
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NOS left Tech-3 arrived yesterday, so that's the final piece of the puzzle sorted. New, still in the bag (came from Belgium in the end), and the inside of the body is date stamped 1184, which is good enough for me :daumenhoch:
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I posted up a pair of Carlisle Aggressor tyres in the Tech section yesterday as i'm trying to find out more info on those; am wondering whether to switch them with the Panaracers?? They have an awesome tread pattern and are an ickle bit wider too, being 1 3/8 instead of 1 1/8''. Hmmm?? Anybody seen these before?
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Fit the Aggressors bud . They look ace and diff ;)
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Fit the Aggressors bud . They look ace and diff ;)
Yeah - that's what i'm thinking too :daumenhoch:
I'd just like to find out a little more about them first (dating more than anything else). I've posted them on here, OZBMX and on the Museum but zero replies on any so far :-\
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Finally got this finished - now entered in BOTM... My first entry!
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I bet you have to weigh it down with bricks to stop it floating off?!?! Very very nice.
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No idea why they're loading sideways!?
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