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Thanks for the comments. I've had a couple of enquiries and just wanted to clarify that that the bottom bracket is completely functional and rides well. The lateral movement I mention is tiny. The only way you notice it when riding is that certain gear combinations (large front/small rear etc) mean that the chain has some lateral movement and so rubs slightly on the inner derailleur. I just don't use those gear combinations. Hope this clarifies it a bit!
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Patrick47
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AlistairWilliams-
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About
For Sale: Gazelle Tour De L'Avenir Reynolds 531 (sz 58)
Posted by
Hello.
For sale is my trusty Gazelle. My bike needs have changed and so we must sadly part company!
Spec:
Frame: Reynolds 531, 58cm (59 c-t) with a 57cm top tube
Derailleurs: Suntour
Crankset/Headset: Stronglight
Brakeset: Weinmann
Wheels: Maillard hubs/Rigida rims
Pedals: Lyotard
My understanding was that this bike was from circa 1975, but I noticed a small '73' engraved on the headtube, so perhaps this is actually from 1973. If so, then this frame is in very good condition for its age! A few chips here and there, as you would expect, but nothing to write home about.
The one that is most noticeable to me is a small scratch on the top of the toptube, near the centre (the pitfalls of using public bike racks!). I have taken pics of most of the obvious imperfections, but really these pics probably exaggerate things, as it is only on inspecting up close that you notice them. The chrome on the forks is in excellent condition, with no corrosion or pitting at all.
The main issue that I haven't had time to look at is that there is a slight amount of play in the bottom bracket, which I suspect means that the bearings need some attention, probably replacing, so probably a cheap and relatively easy fix. This does mean that there is some slight lateral movement in the crankset and so some gear combinations make the chain rub a little on the inside of the front derailleur. But it doesn't really affect riding too much, hence why I haven't got round to sorting it.
The only other thing to mention is that the spokes aren't stainless and there is some slight corrosion. But from a few paces away this frame is still a beaut and still turns heads. The wheels are true enough and spin well. The whole bike rides nicely, the 531 frame is a really smooth ride and it soaks up potholes pretty well I find. I have dry stored this bike over the years and there is absolutely no rust on the frame.
The colour is a lovely deep orange. The yellow Benotto bar tape is a year or so old and is in pretty good condition. I have recently changed a few cables, replaced the brake blocks and added new Cane Creek hoods because the original Weinmann ones were perishing, but apart from that everything is original.
Pics are here:
http://imgur.com/a/AHgQx#0
If there's anything I've forgotten to mention or if you have any questions please let me know.
Price is £130 SOLD
Collection from Cardiff, or happy for buyer to arrange a courier at their own expense. I will do my best to box the bike carefully for posting.
Cheers!