How to Fix Up an Old Bike
It was a Craigslist find.
The ad for the used bike—a 1976 Raleigh Sprite—said that it was in perfect working order. Upon checking the bike out, I realized that it was missing a shifter cable, the headset was shot, and the chain was not threaded through the derailleur properly.
It was listed for $120; I paid $60.
Related: How to Buy a Bike That's Used, Not Abused
If you haven't restored a bike, try it and take “before” and “after” pictures.
The ad did not list the frame size, but I was guessed that it would fit based on the length of the head tube. When I went to see the bike, I showed up with a tape measure and measured all the tubes to confirm that it would fit. All I ended up using from the original build were the frame, fork, fenders, and brake calipers.
If I didn't already have the parts that I needed, I bought them used at Citybikes, a bike co-op in Portland, Oregon. I did buy a new set of bars, the Nitto Albatross Handlebar. Everyone needs a bike with these. I also added a Wald bike basket that cost about $20. When I installed it, the basket wasn't level to the ground because the brackets were way too long, so I made my own brackets out of an aluminum yardstick ($4).
Related: Where to Sell Your Used Cycling Gear
I get more compliments on this bike than I do for any of my “expensive” ones. Still, if someone has an original frame pump to match, let me know: I'll buy it.
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