You are reading a single comment by @MrE and its replies.
Click here to read the full conversation.
London Fixed Gear and Single-Speed is a community of predominantly fixed gear and single-speed cyclists in and around London, UK.
This site is supported almost exclusively by donations. Please consider donating a small amount regularly.
@MrE
It's survived for 60-80 years with paint.
How long will it last without?
It would be a shame if a trendy (cosmetic) choice made you the last possible user. Restoration would suggest replacing paint and plating. Preservation would have left the 'historical' finish in situ but addressed any defects that might allow corrosion. Stripping and oiling is not a long term solution, no matter how much you like the look - your choice of course, but I would plan a more appropriate finish at some point before bare/cool/rad becomes rusty/needing major work.