I wasn't going to make a build post for this bike, but there seems to be a lot of interest in these types of bikes so some people might like to see this build. My goal here is to replicate a 1920's-1950's track/club racer as authentically as possible on a small budget. These sort of bikes were raced on velodromes, grass tracks, cinder tracks and sometimes on the road. Six day races and club races were also popular at the time. The reason for this is to get an accurate reproduction that not only looks good, but also rides like the original. This should yield me a bike that can be enjoyed without the worry of damaging rare and expensive parts or fear of theft. Aluminum parts will be avoided wherever possible. I got this single speed 60's or 70's frame from another RRB member, very low end but the price was right.
Then I ruined the decent paint job.
One interesting thing is that the tubing is textured rather than smooth like you see on most bicycle frames. Basically no prep or cleanup was done while this frame was constructed. The rough unfinished lugs and crude craftsmanship really make the frame seem older than it really is. I cut the fender/rack tabs off and filed them down, which really looks much better. The fork ends were straightened at this time as well.
I cleaned up the frame a little and filled the head badge holes. Then I gave the frame a quick coat of gloss black.
Then I ruined the decent paint job.
One interesting thing is that the tubing is textured rather than smooth like you see on most bicycle frames. Basically no prep or cleanup was done while this frame was constructed. The rough unfinished lugs and crude craftsmanship really make the frame seem older than it really is. I cut the fender/rack tabs off and filed them down, which really looks much better. The fork ends were straightened at this time as well.
I cleaned up the frame a little and filled the head badge holes. Then I gave the frame a quick coat of gloss black.