Stripping down an abandoned bike

(Originally posted on October 30, 2009)


When I left the post office after shipping a pair of bicycle derailleur gear earrings last week, I walked into an abandoned bike containing the parts to replace them. I spent the evening in the shop taking a first pass at the parts that interest me most. (I’ll try to find ways to use as much of the bike as possible later.)

The bike was a pretty pink Sport Racer with a floral saddle. I treated her gently, like a lady.

I was after the navy blue plastic gears from the rear derailleur, the caged ball bearings in the head tube, and the chain. Except for a little trouble loosening the handlebar gooseneck, the bike gave them up readily.

After a soak and a thorough scrubbing in artists’ odorless mineral spirits (much nicer than hardware store solvent), the bearings and gears are ready to wear. The chain still has a light layer of rust that I’ll need to brush off.

Earrings-in-waiting!