Murray Strato Flite (Spaceliner)

[ParkRNDL]

Just picked this up at Stop Swap 'n Save in Westminster, MD.

Details to follow when I get it home and look it over a little better.

 

[ParkRNDL]

More details. I spent all day thinking this was a 24" and that I could just get away with riding it because I'm only 5'6". Look closer and come to find out it's actually a 26". Score!

I'm going to hit that other old bike site that has a Murray Serial Number Thread to be sure, but is it safe to assume based on the serial number I'm looking at here that this is a '64?

 

[wheelbender6]

Cool. Looks very complete. Even has the tail light lens.

 

[ParkRNDL]

Cool. Looks very complete. Even has the tail light lens.

Yeah, that's what sold me on it... EVERYTHING is there, including the horn and light stuff in the tank. Sadly, the battery holder is so rusty that there's no hope of getting it all to work with the original parts, but I plan to keep everything and get it mechanically sound and go from there.

Side note: the 64 in the serial number does not denote year. According to the information I found, the MO5 that's almost under the axle washer makes this a '65.

 

[Rat Pilot]

Nice score! The majority of those had chrome frames, so it’s cool seeing a painted one.

I’d like to have one of those frames to build a 26” version of the Spyder

 

[ifitsfreeitsforme]

This is great. Are you going to restore it?

 

[ParkRNDL]

This is great. Are you going to restore it?

Thanks! Depends how you define "restore." I am absolutely going to go through it mechanically and get it to where it's nice to ride. New tires, a set of pedals from my stash, possibly a seat and slightly different bars without changing the look too much (and of course hang on to the old parts). Then clean and regrease bearings throughout, remove as much rust and dirt as possible, shine up what's left and take it on our group rides this spring.

If by "restore" you mean strip and repaint, then no, that's not in my plans. I don't have the patience to strip and prep properly, nor the skill to apply a nice new coat of paint, nor the budget for "correct" parts and decals.

I get the most enjoyment out of just cleaning up what's there.

 

[ifitsfreeitsforme]

yup, I hear you. That's the approach I'd take too.

 

[Modelcarjedi]

I like the painted versions of these bikes. Great Score !