次回この記事の日本語版を投稿します。
Finding a restoration project is never easy.
Swap meets and flea markets are great as one is able to inspect firsthand. But in the case of online auctions one has to look very closely at the photos and often request additional photos.
But what to look for?
I admit it, I am a stickler when it comes to "original". It is simply a matter of preference but the less original a bicycle is, the less the value. This is true with classic automobiles as well. Original paint, chrome, leather, rubber, etc. Ten years ago it was not impossible to find NOS (New Old Stock) and/or used bicycles where at least the original paint and chrome could be brought back to life. However, more and more it is becoming increasingly difficult to find projects like these. Yet, search and you shall find.
This is a great find, an all-original, barely ridden Bridgestone bicycle.
Here are some of the things I look for besides the obvious overall condition and original parts..
By examining the wear & tear of three places the rider's body makes contact with the bicycle, ie grips, saddle and pedals, one is able to measure how much the bicycle was actually ridden.
Although some heavy carrier cycles had rubber grips, and, during WWII, some bicycles had wooden grips, the vast majority of bicycles from 1950's or earlier had celluloid grips.
As is the case with celluloid grips and saddles, with use over time rubber block pedals wear and the trademarks become worn down as shown in the example below.
Check the manufacturer and tread wear. In this case original Bridgestone bicycle tires and the tread shows nearly zero wear indicating again, that this bicycle was rarely ridden.
