So, This will be my first Build-Off.... I've done a few bike projects in the past but am still definitely a "novice" by most definitions. I spent probably 4 hours last night just looking at some of the other projects on here, some really awesome creations going on... As far as my plan for this build , it primarily started with the bike. I stumbled across one of these German built Fendts on craiglist and have had a minor obsession ever since. I've got two now (both sourced from craigslist) and have been looking for the right theme/design aesthetic before going about modifications. The shaft-drive on these bikes are pretty novel in themselves but add in the rear suspension and overall quality and it's just a cool little piece of German over-engineering. To that end, I thought I would take one of the bikes and create a subtle homage to another great piece of German engineering, The "Silver Arrows". During the 1930's both Audi (Auto Union) and Mercedes created legendary aluminum bodied, streamlined race cars nicknamed the "Silver Arrows". Although the bike is from the wrong era, steel framed, and not exactly streamlined.... I think the fact that it's German-built, shaft driven, and features rear suspension, it could lend itself well to a vintage automotive/racing theme. As of yet I have only broken the bike down and stripped the paint....still waiting on parts to come in. I look forward to watching everyone else's projects progress and hope mine comes in close to the same league....
This is currently the state of my bike as of 6/6/13
Close-up of shaft-drive
This is how this bike appears stock...minus suspension (photo was actually posted on this site by member cthulhu last year)
Design inspirations....
New parts: Ambler fog light (for headlight) F&Y bent wood handlebars (meant to emulate Nardi type steering wheel)
Won't be needing generator bracket....about to remove and grind down....
Post-op
Post-polish
Frame completely removed from drive-train, ready for polish.
This is currently the state of my bike as of 6/6/13
Close-up of shaft-drive
This is how this bike appears stock...minus suspension (photo was actually posted on this site by member cthulhu last year)
Design inspirations....
New parts: Ambler fog light (for headlight) F&Y bent wood handlebars (meant to emulate Nardi type steering wheel)
Won't be needing generator bracket....about to remove and grind down....
Post-op
Post-polish
Frame completely removed from drive-train, ready for polish.