RADBMX.CO.UK
Technical & Reference Section => Tech and Restoration => Topic started by: Midschoolfool on February 11, 2017, 04:54 PM
-
Right. Will take me a while this one.
OK, so I am Andrew. I am 43 and live on the beach in West Sussex. I've been into BMX since its inception but had a pretty hard time of things as a kid. I have Aspergers and in my mid 20s was found to have Bipolar 2. This has made life pretty tough, plus my dad died when I was 7 so we weren't rich. My first BMX came from a toy store and was called an Atlas. It had a cotter pin crank. It also weighed a ton and wasn't very nice. I did own some nice bikes as a kid (TRM, Ultra Burner, Numerous GTs and so on) but I found old skool bikes to be unreliable. As an adult I was a good 15 stone, too much for an early bike. During the mid school was where it was at for me and I was sponsored by JAD during my 20s. Just street mainly, but a lot of long distance riding too.
Any way, in 1998 I decided I wanted to retire from riding Street. It was taking its toll on my body and I wasn't getting any younger so I bought myself a 1998 Quadangle. It looked like this.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/quad_zpsjdftqqvf.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/quad_zpsjdftqqvf.jpg.html)
All candy red, but it had this decal set.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/quad08_zpstcoab7ue.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/quad08_zpstcoab7ue.jpg.html)
It was a beautiful bike, with Fusion 3PC cranks (made in USA not Taiwan) and some seriously nice parts (Chrome Peregrine 48s etc). Any way, one day when leaving work (at a bike shop) I was assaulted by a crack head (bar over the back of my head) and the bike was stolen. I stopped riding shortly after.
So the mission was to basically rebuild that bike. I kind of knew that it wasn't going to be that specific Quadangle because they are hard to find (SB still owned SE Racing then) and they are expensive. Last one I saw (the red one in the pic) was in Australia and he wanted £450 for the F&F before customs charges. Any way, I then found out that during the noughties SE made a very similar bike only in Cro Mo. TBH? with my fat ass it is a better idea.
So I put the feelers out on a US based forum and was soon offered this F&F for £100.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/rob%20bike_zps20mmbjkg.jpeg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/rob%20bike_zps20mmbjkg.jpeg.html)
As you can see, it is very similar :) The postage was cheap at around £75 so I decided to go for it. Around eight days later.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170118_121413340_zpsxmv3vqim.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170118_121413340_zpsxmv3vqim.jpg.html)
All the way from its spiritual home in Cali :D
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170118_121923648_zpsr4arvigi.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170118_121923648_zpsr4arvigi.jpg.html)
OK so I decided to strip off the decals.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170130_150738524_zpspsmfidsn.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170130_150738524_zpspsmfidsn.jpg.html)
And then get it powder coated. I was all set on the original red, but then saw this which turned my head.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/yellow_zps7omuuvhp.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/yellow_zps7omuuvhp.jpg.html)
Ooo, god that looks nice in yellow ! so I poked around and found that with powder coat they use an RAL chart. I soon found that RAL 1018 Zinc Yellow was a good match !
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/RAL%2010180%20sample%202_zpslq08t5kl.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/RAL%2010180%20sample%202_zpslq08t5kl.jpg.html)
OK, so then I needed some parts. Back in 2013 my wife bought me a SE Ripper which is like a cut down version of the PK Ripper. This is mine here.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/oB9y4jS_zpsrw9xyzne.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/oB9y4jS_zpsrw9xyzne.jpg.html)
I had in the entrance to the building locked, but not locked down. Sadly the bloke in the flat upstairs had a row with his wife, stormed out and left the building open and it was stolen. But, as you can see I replaced most of the parts on it, so I had a box full under the stairs lol.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/img_20161125_2213108125838baeb96_zps4hzydoh4.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/img_20161125_2213108125838baeb96_zps4hzydoh4.jpg.html)
The bike has now been replaced with a Mike Buff PK Ripper, but I want my Quadangle..
Any way, I then put the feelers out for a set of pre '99 decals. These came up, for forty quid (again USA, again excellent people helping me along)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170126_110517853_zps21oadsc4.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170126_110517853_zps21oadsc4.jpg.html)
OK, then to decide on the colour scheme. Just after my dad died my mother got my brother a Burner. This one, to be exact.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/burner_zpsluwztoxg.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/burner_zpsluwztoxg.jpg.html)
And I remember falling in love with it. Sadly it was stolen about a week after he got it and he then got a racing bike instead.
So, it was time to start hunting down parts. As I have said before I am not a huge fan of early bikes. They were worryingly light (racing that was fine but not when you are an adult) stupidly expensive and modern technology was so much better (990 brakes, better headsets, sealed bearings etc).
Here is where I am up to.
Grips and pegs. ODI Mushroom 2 in yellow/red with Colony pegs. (X2, just for some flatland fun)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170208_110456545_zpsrztlpchm.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170208_110456545_zpsrztlpchm.jpg.html)
Brake levers. Tektro Magnesium (made in 1999). These came from Sweden.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/brake%20levers_zpseybpf3i0.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/brake%20levers_zpseybpf3i0.jpg.html)
Chain disc. Crupi billet made in USA. 42t.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/Snow_Flake_Gears_zpszp0cylmd.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/Snow_Flake_Gears_zpszp0cylmd.jpg.html)
Cranks. Salt Rookie mid, 3pc sealed bearings.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/crank_zpsbaltiklx.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/crank_zpsbaltiklx.jpg.html)
Stem. Exposure Infinity.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/stemmew_zpsyhthvp5y.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/stemmew_zpsyhthvp5y.jpg.html)
Bars. Snafu Greg Illingworth. These are being powder coated.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/snafu%20bars_zpsepecqgry.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/snafu%20bars_zpsepecqgry.jpg.html)
Seat post. Anodized red micro adjust.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170111_124356062_zpskyqenwxl.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170111_124356062_zpskyqenwxl.jpg.html)
Tyres. Panaracer Mach SK (bought from Portugal). Made in 1998.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/panaracer_zpso0o4hgit.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/panaracer_zpso0o4hgit.jpg.html)
Gyro/detangler. Blank.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/gyro_zpsqnebf8pi.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/gyro_zpsqnebf8pi.jpg.html)
10-14mm axle converters.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170111_124523941_zpsjzmcn9n0.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170111_124523941_zpsjzmcn9n0.jpg.html)
Seat. SE racing padded seat made during the mid to late 90s.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/SE%20seat_zps390kfyhw.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/SE%20seat_zps390kfyhw.jpg.html)
ICT
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/chain%20tensioner_zpspdpn8flv.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/chain%20tensioner_zpspdpn8flv.jpg.html)
Chain.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/chain_zpsw8rvj4gy.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/chain_zpsw8rvj4gy.jpg.html)
Headset.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/headsetnew_zpsovc9bnjt.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/headsetnew_zpsovc9bnjt.jpg.html)
Potts mod bolt and Kona cap.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/kona%20cap_zpskuonzjaj.png) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/kona%20cap_zpskuonzjaj.png.html)
Seat clamp.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/seat%20clamp_zpsntqrsokt.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/seat%20clamp_zpsntqrsokt.jpg.html)
Plate.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/haroplate_zpscnel8icm.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/haroplate_zpscnel8icm.jpg.html)
Brake cables.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170111_124632944_zpsholnqe1n.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170111_124632944_zpsholnqe1n.jpg.html)
Brakes.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170111_124443527_zpsizrmlqxy.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170111_124443527_zpsizrmlqxy.jpg.html)
Nipples.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/nipples_zps0f6fqa7k.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/nipples_zps0f6fqa7k.jpg.html)
Stickers.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/Landing%20gear%20decal_zpsiwkwgfwb.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/Landing%20gear%20decal_zpsiwkwgfwb.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170126_110517853_zps21oadsc4.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170126_110517853_zps21oadsc4.jpg.html)
Misc/tools.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/cone%20spanner_zpsdopjzuox.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/cone%20spanner_zpsdopjzuox.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/bearing%20press_zpsnqqibjgl.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/bearing%20press_zpsnqqibjgl.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/grease_zpsjtankerg.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/grease_zpsjtankerg.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/wd40_zpsigo1mvrb.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/wd40_zpsigo1mvrb.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/link%20extractor_zpsdjavhwam.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/link%20extractor_zpsdjavhwam.jpg.html)
-
The journey continues...
So today it was finally time for powder after two delays. I wanted to go last Friday but they close at 12 and that's a bit too early because it's out of the way and we go to my mother's on Fridays usually and she would not have been there. I then wanted to go yesterday but something came up so I finally got it out today. First I labelled up the parts.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170207_130606563_zpsce1h77a4.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170207_130606563_zpsce1h77a4.jpg.html)
And then put it in the Mini :)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170207_131347567_zpsplp6tfa5.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170207_131347567_zpsplp6tfa5.jpg.html)
And finally it is at the powder coating place :D was a PITA to find because there is a railway in the way so you have to go miles around and then back on yourself.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170207_134303783_zpsstrtisb1.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170207_134303783_zpsstrtisb1.jpg.html)
-
This should be interesting! I am not a fan of the new graphics though... I would probably be tempted to put 80;s Quad decals on :daumenhoch:
-
The graphics I'm using are the last produced under the SE Racing brand owned by Scot.
They're not for everyone I guess but I love the pop art style :)
-
I'll watch and see as this unfolds :daumenhoch: hopefully you'll have better luck with this bike fella :daumenhoch:
-
I'll watch and see as this unfolds :daumenhoch: hopefully you'll have better luck with this bike fella :daumenhoch:
haha thanks ! yeah not been very lucky with SEs. Never had another brand stolen tbh.. I did have an 81 looptail that I crashed and ended up having to have surgery on my elbow though :D
So this time I am being careful. Got myself a lid, gloves etc.
-
Just a quick update.
So the pegs I am using are Colony. They RRP for £25 each. So I managed to find those yellow ones for £4.99 each. I bought two initially, but last night decided to go back and look and see if there were any more left. There were five, so I bought another two. They say they are only for the left and rear, but when I looked at the ones that I have already it was clear they can be mounted on any side front or rear, you just have the logo at a funny angle/upside down.
Obviously I don't care about that as I will be using some form of grip tape on them. So yeah, got four now. Currently thinking "Do I really want to mount them?" but probably will. I am building the bike to be a DSR (dirt, street, race) so pegs are fun.
I also ordered this last night.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/hanger_zpslwvjhev1.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/hanger_zpslwvjhev1.jpg.html)
In red. It's a cable hanger.. Will look much better than that nasty steel crap.
Also I forgot to mention. I have a plotter. So basically I can cut single colour graphics.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170126_142404910_zpslr8uvxbr.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170126_142404910_zpslr8uvxbr.jpg.html)
As an example. You may have noticed that the 90s Quadangle was 6061 alu and mine is Cro Mo. So, I need to design (done) and cut a graphic that looks similar to the 6061 graphic only "Cro Mo".
So I have also ordered some vinyl. I have the yellow and the silver, just need the black now. Then I can make that up and complete the sticker set :)
-
SHINY !!!
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/crankpretty_zpsek0yij1g.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/crankpretty_zpsek0yij1g.jpg.html)
Hopefully the centre tube is the right length so I do not have to cut the one I have.
-
I can see that you are having so much fun with this! ;D
Great how you can pick and choose from such an large pool of parts and suppliers, makes me very jealous.
-
I can see that you are having so much fun with this! ;D
Great how you can pick and choose from such an large pool of parts and suppliers, makes me very jealous.
Yeah it's lucky. I could build five bikes for what some guys spend on a F&F. I'm glad I rode the mid school and old skool tbh. I'm glad because it made me realise that things move on and tech improves and gets better and better.
I wouldn't mind a couple of the bikes I had in the 80s, but having rode an 80s bike during the mid school I realised that yeah, things had improved an awful awful lot.
In the late 90s I was walking past a bike shop one day. One that we used to go to when we were kids on the bus to buy parts of a weekend. Any way, he had a brand new NOS (term didn't even exist then !) Skyway Street Beat in white. Very early 80s. He also had a brand new white Skyway hot seat and a few other Skyway parts. I decided I was going to build a second bike, phoned him when I got home and asked what he wanted for it. I paid about £50 IIRC.
Any way over the next few weeks I stocked up on parts and built it.. I remember bolting the back wheel onto it and thinking "Jesus these dropouts actually flex !". Any way, I took it over the park to the tennis courts (kinda concrete) and tried to pull a few tricks on it but each time ended up on my ass. The back end was almost unbelievably short. It was light though, but I reckon one serious gap and I would have left the back end of it behind.
Few weeks later I sold it to a mate who was hard up for £30 and he gave it to his little brother for his birthday.
It's crazy, because during the 90s 80s BMX stuff was practically worthless. It's only been since the dawn of the internet and guys reaching our age that these parts have become worth anything again. The PK Ripper I paid £250 for (complete with Z rims the lot, all NOS) in 1998 is worth about three grand in parts now. I sold it for $400 after having a bad tumble on it out in the USA.
But yeah, my favourite bikes are all mid school. Schwinn Hydramatic, '98 Quad, Standard Shorty). I do have a PK Ripper but mostly because that was my dream bike when I was a kid. After riding one however? they look a bit odd and skinny when you are sat on one haha. One of the very few bikes that has really stood the test of time though, and I have a gorgeous '17 Mike Buff.
Once I have this Quad I have what I want, and with me not being attached to old parts etc it does make it nice that I can buy all of the really nice mod cons for it.
It also helps that I live in a flat with no outside space at all. I can fit two bikes in the hallway and that is it. And I pushed it for two and it caused massive rows with my wife. She's good now though, now she knows I will stop at two :)
I think TBH bikes are like computers. You can only really settle on one, get used to it and do the best with it. That would be why I have three computers lmao. Mind you they are smaller and easier to explain :D
-
Quick update. The Yoke/hanger arrived. It's really nice quality. Has dual lock bolts for the cable too, so should never come loose. I also got the second set of pegs I paid a tenner for. Just as lovely as the first two.
Sadly I am getting the runaround from the powder coater. I phoned on Monday because they were supposed to be done (the parts) on Tues and they said today. So I called today, they are now promising tomorrow ffs.
I'm going down there tomorrow. If they are not done I am taking them with me and finding some one else, I don't have time for messers.
-
Got the parts back. Not seen them yet as they are wrapped in bubble wrap. Will get some pics tonight :)
-
Got the parts back. Not seen them yet as they are wrapped in bubble wrap. Will get some pics tonight :)
Look fwd to pics :daumenhoch:
-
It's torture lol. Not leaving til 9pm either..
I want to fit the decals soooooo bad. Got the proper ALU head badge too.
-
It's torture lol. Not leaving til 9pm either..
I want to fit the decals soooooo bad. Got the proper ALU head badge too.
Just don't rush the decals! I have fooked loads up cos I couldn't wait to get em on! :-[
-
I will plan them out first and put masking tape guides on.
But yeah, won't rush. They cost a lot. Thankfully they're transfer decals so a bit easier.
-
Happy Birthday (about two weeks ago) to me happy birthday (about two weeks ago) to meeee.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170216_202947902_zpsibd7de2l.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170216_202947902_zpsibd7de2l.jpg.html)
As you can probably now see I decided to do the F, F and bars all yellow. So let's take a look at the finish. (apologies for the potato pics, very dark, flash added later to show the correct colours).
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170216_203129792_zpslwjc0ayo.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170216_203129792_zpslwjc0ayo.jpg.html)
Flawless. The willy powdered the steerer tube though so I will have to scrape it off some.
OK so the actual colour.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170216_203423_zps6pxlecy1.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170216_203423_zps6pxlecy1.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170216_205130639_zpszto7xqjs.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170216_205130639_zpszto7xqjs.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170216_210037951_zpsrcmgo9uv.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170216_210037951_zpsrcmgo9uv.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170216_211727_zpsjg8bqcfs.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170216_211727_zpsjg8bqcfs.jpg.html)
Boomshanka :D
-
Sweet!! :coolsmiley:
-
Love stories like this :) looking good :daumenhoch: keep the updates and pic's coming :4_17_5:
-
Thanks guys.. Here is an actual daytime pic.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/piccy_zpseeowfvd6.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/piccy_zpseeowfvd6.jpg.html)
So the colour is somewhere between night pics and flash pics, definitely a lot less lairy than it looked. It's kinda like a mellow banana milkshake colour :)
Oops wrong pic.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170217_110254596_zpsr4ulalnh.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170217_110254596_zpsr4ulalnh.jpg.html)
I will leave that other one there though to show exactly how I do not want my bike to look. You'll notice I have slipped in a load of black stuff? there's a very good reason for that, you can ride it during summer without blinding yourself.
-
Bummer. The headset is too big for the gyro to drop, and after spending all day busting my ass on it I am going to need another headset.
Problem is finding one. I hear the FSA Pig works but I am broke now for two weeks.
I forgot what a bitch scratch building a bike from a pile of parts really is lol.
-
Here is where I got to, then got stuck.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170217_151147121_zpsol84uzvc.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170217_151147121_zpsol84uzvc.jpg.html)
And then my amazing lady bought me this.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/headset_zpsk5pm0ivq.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/headset_zpsk5pm0ivq.jpg.html)
I think I will just use the top and leave the red bearing cup in the bottom. Shouldn't hurt it any :)
-
Looking good Andrew :daumenhoch:
I see you got the headtube badge on :D If you need another or a spare just give me a shout and ill pop one in the post ;)
-
Thanks mate. I managed not to smack it (yet).
Will let you know :D
-
Super work and fun read.
Looks like a very shiney fruit salad chew 8)
-
Super work and fun read.
Looks like a very shiney fruit salad chew 8)
hahaha it does !
I have been calling it the banana split. A local fish and chip place I go to does a wicked banana split with strawberry syrup, it kinda reminded me of that :D
-
OK so the crank didn't prove to be very difficult and the powder is not too thick so the seat clamp went straight on.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170219_150903_zpszye7zhn9.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170219_150903_zpszye7zhn9.jpg.html)
I also fitted the seat to the post. Headset shipped yesterday, so I should get it Tuesday. Really loving how this is starting to (slowly) take shape now though !
-
I fitted the tyres and tubes today. One thing's for sure, they are gonna need a bath to get the yucky coating off. It's just gone everywhere :D
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170220_124718324_zpscgi6yjqf.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170220_124718324_zpscgi6yjqf.jpg.html)
Tyre dandruff :D I got grenades for this bike as they reminded me of the cover of American Idiot (Green Day).
-
Quick update. Still no headset. Must be coming tomorrow (he said, hopefully).
So today I was digging around on Ebay and had a few bucks and saw this.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/plate1_zpsmhljrs9m.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/plate1_zpsmhljrs9m.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/plate2_zps96jslzqx.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/plate2_zps96jslzqx.jpg.html)
And well, you know how it goes...
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/101379-Jim-Carrey-I-like-it-alot-gif-GflM_zpskzm6hgyx.gif) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/101379-Jim-Carrey-I-like-it-alot-gif-GflM_zpskzm6hgyx.gif.html)
So I now own it.
-
Sold the seat from my Mike Buff so I got this :)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/Stolen%20gyro_zpslngdbke4.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/Stolen%20gyro_zpslngdbke4.jpg.html)
-
OK, big confession here: I have no idea how these 'detangler' thingies work. Not a clue. Never seen one in the day, never knew they even exisited until I came here. I can not be the only one?! I would love to know how they work; and not afraid to look silly!
-
OK, big confession here: I have no idea how these 'detangler' thingies work. Not a clue. Never seen one in the day, never knew they even exisited until I came here. I can not be the only one?! I would love to know how they work; and not afraid to look silly!
It's very simple dude. You get two "2 into 1" cables. The first goes into the brake lever and comes out as two cables. These two cables screw into the top plate (the I like it a lot thing) and then hook through into the top of the gyro. The top plate turns with the stem etc.
The second 2 into 1 cable goes 2 into the bottom of the gyro and then fixes to the frame (either on built in mounts, mounts you fit on modern bikes or a headset cup with them on) this stays still. That then goes down into 1 cable which goes to the brake.
The gyro is full of bearings so the top half and bottom half can spin independently of each other. As you pull the brake the gyro pulls up in "free air" sort of thing and pulls the bottom cable pulling the brake. If you rotate the bars the top half of the plate goes with them as you turn.
That's why I have had problems, because the headset I had was too fat to allow it to move up and down in free space.
-
Headset now fitted.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170222_124549413_zpskw7jswbe.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170222_124549413_zpskw7jswbe.jpg.html)
Currently waiting on gyro parts, then I can finally get it all fitted up.
-
Bars got some love today.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170223_134940845_zps8ncscvrp.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170223_134940845_zps8ncscvrp.jpg.html)
Renthal donuts :)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170223_135018458_zpsoqdtnaaf.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170223_135018458_zpsoqdtnaaf.jpg.html)
-
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170224_132521648_zpsavxziqhm.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170224_132521648_zpsavxziqhm.jpg.html)
:)
-
Seat and post fitted, front wheel/pegs fitted. Tyre is slightly buckled, will need more fettling. Front brake all done, bites like a dog :D
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170226_121220432_zpsuvxaxkz0.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170226_121220432_zpsuvxaxkz0.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170226_121251660_zpsk47g7jiw.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170226_121251660_zpsk47g7jiw.jpg.html)
-
That's looking pretty funky mate. :daumenhoch:
-
Thanks man. Might try some chain shenanigans later. Hoping the chain is long enough tbh, bloody new school bikes ! might have to buy another one and join them up if it's not. It should look just like your avatar when I am finished :D
BTW forgot to mention. Pedals..
So I have a set of Shimano look alikes from my Mike Buff. However I spotted those yellow ones (Redneck) which have sealed bearings etc. So I bought them for like £7. Then I read reviews and apparently they like to snap :(
I might just wait until Friday when I can do it properly. Not decided yet. I think red will look better, but yeah will wait and see what happens. Way the weather has been you can't even open the front door without the wind taking your face off. Such is the price of living like 50ft from the beach.
-
Chain.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170226_154210492_zpsue8ia8lt.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170226_154210492_zpsue8ia8lt.jpg.html)
Wheel fitted.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170226_154236531_zpspuq2lrjw.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170226_154236531_zpspuq2lrjw.jpg.html)
This is where the fun and games began. I shortened the chain (but not enough) and then the link extractor broke. I couldn't get the chain off and I threw a sulk and went for a nap. Woke up, took the Dremel to the extractor and modified it to use a screwdriver allen bit. Managed to get the chain off, shortened it and then when I tightened up the sprocket side of the wheel the peg was sliding on the welds and pulling the chain too tight. Took the peg off and ground it down a little and...
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170226_194001297_zpsacsubakv.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170226_194001297_zpsacsubakv.jpg.html)
The chain is pretty tight but I am sure it will bed in.
-
the chain is done and the pedals are now on.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170227_152613376_zpsruxukfz4.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170227_152613376_zpsruxukfz4.jpg.html)
The chain is painted. So I have spent twenty minutes or so running it with my hands up to speed. Which is making a mess.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170227_152717032_zpsst43hidj.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170227_152717032_zpsst43hidj.jpg.html)
I've seen it the other way up, but like a moron got carried away buying parts and forgot to buy a stand. Doh.
Tyredruff. This stuff is driving me nuts :S
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX/IMG_20170227_152642627_zps2mgus2uf.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX/IMG_20170227_152642627_zps2mgus2uf.jpg.html)
-
Now take it out to play! :daumenhoch:
-
yeah get it outside need some action shots
-
Carlo's old ramps at Pagham would be a nice spot for photos :daumenhoch:
Good place to smash yer front teeth out too :LolLolLolLol:
-
Carlo's old ramps at Pagham would be a nice spot for photos :daumenhoch:
Good place to smash yer front teeth out too :LolLolLolLol:
Already done mate lol.
Is that Dean's ramp behind the arcade?
-
Dunno who Dean is, but yeah, the big near derelict ones :daumenhoch:
-
Who owns the arcade? Do you know? I'm sure he was called Dean. Used to be a pro apparently. I met him through a friend of his.
Tbh I was thinking the pier for the tart pics.
-
Carlo Griggs built the ramps, or his dad did. This was back in the '80's. He was world champion way back i think.
Carlo owns Proper BMX.
His sister owns the cafe there, not sure if they own the whole lot though :-\
-
I see. I'm originally from Brixton, London. I moved to the USA in 2000 and split with my wife out there and came back to the UK in 2008. I had this mate who I knew from Selsea and we agreed to meet at the arcade there. He told me the owner was called Dean and his brother was an ex pro/world champ. So unless my brain has gone foggy it may be his brother I met.
I ate at the café. Has American no plates on the walls yeah? I promised the owner my old ones but never went back.
I'm remarried now, so may go down there when it warms up a bit with my wife :)
-
OK so you guys have waited long enough, sorry about that. The sun is hiding again and it's peeing with rain. We had one day of sunshine this week and typically it was "go see mum" day.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/Ben/IMG_20170311_130402225_zpsyjoopgtk.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/Ben/IMG_20170311_130402225_zpsyjoopgtk.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/Ben/IMG_20170311_130423514_zpsjuw7z2kr.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/Ben/IMG_20170311_130423514_zpsjuw7z2kr.jpg.html)
The bike is ready though. I aired up the tyres to 50 PSI yesterday when the pump came and dialled the brakes in a bit more (the back one). So she's ready to go now..
As for it being my "cheap" bike? um yeah, it was anything but. I figured it all out last night and got a big shock.
-
Looks sweet...I like it more than I thought I would. always a shocker when you add up a build afterwards! :daumenhoch:
-
Looks sweet...I like it more than I thought I would. always a shocker when you add up a build afterwards! :daumenhoch:
It was the shipping and powder coat that really killed me. It equated to 1/3 of the build cost. Oh, and the decals. Over sixty quid on those..
I'm glad I didn't skimp though, and hey, it was about 1/3 of the cost of my original 98 that got stolen and all of the parts are better other than the crank arms and frame.
Just looking forward to getting it out now. If it ever stops raining and howling bloody wind.
-
I did it. I actually conquered my fear and went out for a ride ! I clocked in about 8 miles. Got back I was drenched in sweat, heart was pounding legs and ass are killing me. Beautiful day though, perfect for a ride.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09824_zpsj70bvm47.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09824_zpsj70bvm47.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09827_zpssspxwfat.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09827_zpssspxwfat.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09831_zps9hiskuaa.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09831_zps9hiskuaa.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09830_zps0pz5byof.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09830_zps0pz5byof.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09831_zps9hiskuaa.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09831_zps9hiskuaa.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09832_zpswj5uyajb.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09832_zpswj5uyajb.jpg.html)
ET PHONE HOME
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09840_zpslaoabtdi.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09840_zpslaoabtdi.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09843_zpsrkpzsajt.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09843_zpsrkpzsajt.jpg.html)
Bognor Pier.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09845_zps3yfioby1.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09845_zps3yfioby1.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09848_zpsbgxhxsh2.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09848_zpsbgxhxsh2.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09849_zpsn79z3p6g.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09849_zpsn79z3p6g.jpg.html)
Now here's an unusual sight. Blue sky in the UK with no rain clouds at all.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09854_zpssm2da1a3.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09854_zpssm2da1a3.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09855_zpsgwnq0yua.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09855_zpsgwnq0yua.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09863_zpsnebqh0ob.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09863_zpsnebqh0ob.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09864_zpsenskaekb.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09864_zpsenskaekb.jpg.html)
Keepin' it rad.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09867_zpsp66xuiws.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09867_zpsp66xuiws.jpg.html)
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09872_zpsem6ybjyk.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09872_zpsem6ybjyk.jpg.html)
Time to ride home.
(http://i1126.photobucket.com/albums/l620/biddlybong/BMX2/DSC09875_zpsrycwycns.jpg) (http://s1126.photobucket.com/user/biddlybong/media/BMX2/DSC09875_zpsrycwycns.jpg.html)
Now if you don't mind I think I will go sit in the corner and cry haha. I'm going to pay for this tomorrow !
-
I've been following this thread wasn't sure I would like this quad but I must say my head has been turned it looks ace great to see it out and about as well . After all your hard work It deservers a bit sunshine
"Nice pair of vans bye the way"
-
Love that you made a build thread, warts and all, however the Ronald MacDonald paint disapoints.
For me this is a miss but that is just me; however don't listen to a word I say as my efforts meet a resounding Booooo! So what do I know.
-
Love that you made a build thread, warts and all, however the Ronald MacDonald paint disapoints.
For me this is a miss but that is just me; however don't listen to a word I say as my efforts meet a resounding Booooo! So what do I know.
haha that's fine man you're more than welcome to your opinion :)
It's all SE mid school colours.. Was either yellow or red and the last one I had that was stolen was red so I didn't want to tempt fate :)
Quadog - thanks man. Never had a bike I didn't ride tbh. I might dial up the PK and take that out soon :)