Restoring an Old Bicycle

Restoring an old or vintage bike can be a dauntingand sandpaper to remove the paint. Most people don't
task but can be very rewarding upon completion.realize this but it is a cool idea to wear a medical mask
There are certain rules to follow and precautions towhile removing rust and paint so you don't breathe in
take before jumping into a full bicycle restoration. But,any loose particles.
the hardest part may be deciding on which style orNow that all paint and rust are removed you can begin
type of bike you would like to restore. Old beachto paint. The best paint and primer to use would be
cruisers and commuter bikes almost always come outauto spray paint which can be obtained at your local
looking beautiful.auto parts store and some hardware stores. You
When restoring an old or vintage bicycle the first stepalways want to start with a white base layer because
would be to disassemble the bike. This procedureit helps the paint stick to the metal. Once you have a
often makes people very excited and they take partsbase layer you can now spray using the auto paint.
off without fully remembering where they go when it'sYou want to spray about 12-18 inches away from the
time to start rebuilding the bike. When taking your bikeparts and frame. Once you put a few layers of paint
apart keep a close eye on all the pieces you areon you can use a clear coat enamel to finish the paint
taking off so you can remember where they go backjob.
on.Your bike should be looking pretty sharp now. It is time
Once your bike is stripped you can begin removingto start putting your bike together. When adding the
any rust and paint. You can buy rust removingcranks, headset, and pedals you will want to re-grease
products at your local hardware store. You can alsothem using bike grease. Just oil your chain and you are
use steel wool to remove rust from the metal partsall set to enjoy your fully restored bicycle.