Back to the "OLD BAT"

Started back to work today on the old Batavus. Put the crank in after a little grinding on the axle and lots of thread chasing. I used a new used chain I had from one of my better bikes. The chain wheels are 52 / 40 tooth. Not as low as I wanted but will work OK. I also ran shifter cables. The bike had full length covered cables when I got it but I have changed to bare cable where I could. With the long cage derailleur it shifts crisp and sharp, I love the old friction shifters. Still need to repack and adjust the new pedals that I have had for a couple years. You would think that new pedals would be ready to go but nope. That’s why your better bike shops go through a new bike before selling it.

There are lots of theories out there about rotating weight compared to static weight of a bike. Any weight loss of the bike or the rider means less work to get the same results. But rotating weight reduction means quicker acceleration and some claim better hill climbing. I’m not too concerned about the weight of this build but I have reduced the rotating weight by just over three pounds (1362.9 grams). This was done by using lighter wheels, tires, crank, pedals and chain. So far only new parts have been tires/tubes, cables, and seat. I did buy a new set of fenders but they may go on my Trek 4300. The bars and stem are off the Nishiki. Wheels are off the Fuji. The crank has been pieced together from the Chain Reaction parts bins. Lots of small parts from my parts & junk drawers. Still need to polish the rusted seat post, mount the seat and pedals.  More later........