Classic 2 Wheelers

1991 Alpinestar Cromega LX T26......Part 1

2011-12-29T06:46:00.000-08:00

Recently, feeling kind of bored and looking through my past and present collection of vintage / classic bikes, something seems to be amiss. I have actually missed out in a MTB or BITDs it's called 'ATB' collection. Flipping through my old school MTB Action magazines, a strange feeling rushed through me. It's none other than a picture of an Alpinestar. I have always love this bike the moment I set my eyes on it. The unique design and that EOS ( Elevated Oversize Stay ) system was way advance back then.
With that 'sudden rush', I immediately scan through the web for information regarding this bike.
It seems that in UK, there is a huge following for the Alpinestar Cromega DX. Since there is a huge following, why follow then? Well, if everybody has one, that means it not so 'rare', right?
So, I dug further and found that Alpinestar also produced another model, frame smaller in size, meant for short riders.

This saddle comes orginally with the bike. I presume it's the ORIGNAL set up.

Look at those tyres from Alpinestar. After 20 years, it's still soft and no sign of hardening or cracking. That's what I call 'QUALITY'.

Chromoly is actually an alloy, made up of Chromium and Molybdenum or also know as CRMO. It is easy to weld and the best thing is that it's stronger and harder than standard steel. It also possesses excellent strength to weight ratio, thus suitable for making high-end bicycles. This bike's frame and fork is made entirely of this material, CRMO.

Vintage cargo tricycle

2011-12-22T17:51:00.000-08:00

These tricycles used to be a common sight on Singapore's road but I guessed their days are more or less numbered. These are very hardy work horses, mind you. I think the main problem contributing to their dwindling population and popularity is :-
1) the front tyres are pretty hard to get nowadays.
2) it's heavy.
3) parking it and cycling on the road can be hazardous as it actually occupys nearly 1/2 a lane.
4) no young riders /takers.

But then, you can customize these rides to carry eg. ice-cream, fried kway teow (hawker fare on the go), garang guni...practically anything you can think of, even as a people mover.
There are newer version, costing around SGD$140. Made in China. Filmsy and not made to last. Smaller but comes with gears? That I have to explore and take some pics to confirm.

Vintage Japanese 26 inch spotted!!

2011-06-16T22:32:00.000-07:00

I was shopping at Giant Plentong and lo~and~behold! A vintage Nitto Japanese make 26 inch is up for sale! And of all places, Cash Converter. Yes. Cash Converter. I'd never thought of it either but well, I immediately home in for a closer inspection. In my sputtering Baharsa Melayu, I chatted with the sales guy. Told me this is a real antique. Correct me if I'm wrong. The bike lookd kind of modern. The decals have Chinese words and not a single Japanese writing and I was told it's a Japanese bike, brand name 'Nitto'.
However, I do love the accessories. The front carrier looks good. So does the big bell. The leather saddle looks well seasoned but no brand. The sales guy keep saying the rear carrier is good and can 'tonpang' another person. Whatever.
Given that the selling price is RM$699 and the day's exchange rate is SGD$244.00, I reckon that I will dump in SGD$286 for this bike.

Apache Pinto head badge

2011-02-05T17:33:00.001-08:00

Apache Pinto head badge, originally uploaded by the_meadows21.

Bought the cool looking head badge sometime back and finally got the time to post it online. The brand is Apache Pinto. Any idea which bike it belongs to? It's NOS.

Vintage bike spotted.

2010-11-08T16:12:00.001-08:00

Spotted this vintage remake at the Red Dot Museum during a recent visit. On close up, it seems to belongs to Vanguard Designs...

Think the frame belongs to a Shimano road bike. Rims are nicely coloured. But on close up, the paint work quite....you have to judge it yourself. I was expecting more...
The brake cables shouldn't be secured using cable ties. That's one of the minus points. It's fitted with Shimano Nexus 4 speed hubs, Brooks saddle and a nice leather saddle tool bag.

All in all, a nice bike with plenty of modern touches. Is it for sale? I dun see any price tag, just a note secured to the saddle. "Do Not Lift Up Bicycle".

Raleigh Chopper MKII going places!

2010-09-18T18:01:00.000-07:00

Brought her out from some fresh air and sight seeing before bidding her good bye.
The bike rides well, with positive gear shifting.

The new tyres also grips well on the soggy grassland...

One last spin to the playground from some parting shorts. "This used to be my playground...", the sound suddenly pop into my mind. Reminds me of the time when I was a kid, riding my mod Kris around the neighbourhood. Well, memories are meant to....just memories. But good ones. :P

Raleigh Chopper, 1977 MKII

2010-09-12T02:23:00.000-07:00

Score this original Raleigh Chopper several months back. It was stripped down and stored and away as I've run out of storage. Finally managed to squeeze in some free time and decided to do it up. My intention is not to spent a bomb in the restoration. Just enough to make it road worthy, that's all.

End caps with the 'R'
These hooks, does it really helps in braking power?

Yes, without 'it', this bike is just another 'KRIS' or it is?

Luvs the handlebars..

"Sir, there's a rip on your a@#!"

SA 3 speed hubs, dated 77

The original bike's linkage was missing when I bought it from a LBS. So, no choice but to have it ordered from UK. Lucky for me, I have an aunt residing there and she's my main source for helping the get those darn "Made-in-England" spare parts.

The condition of the chrome on this bike is rather pitiful. The previous owner must have left to face the elements alone. There are plenty of pitting. Thus restoration work can really be a challenge and also costly. Given my tight budget, I decided to let it go.

Got this Sturmey Archer 3 speed stick shifter from a fellow collector in exchange for my original Kuwahara Owners Manual. It needed repair. The indicator's not working. Upon stripping it, i discovered that one of the tiny parts in connecting the moving armature was damaged. Well, guess it's time for some DIY. Atleast I got it working fine again...

Well, this is the last time I'm going to ride a Raleigh Chopper again as this one has since been sold to a local collector.

Old School BMX, no brand

2010-09-09T18:00:00.000-07:00

Bought this old school BMX for SGD$250 from a LBS. NOS. Some BMX 'purist' might say that I'm crazy to spend that amount of money on a Taiwan made BMX, even though it's a classic. But wth, this is the bike that I once rode when I was a kid. Not a Kuwahara, Apollo, Skyway...these bikes was way out of my family's financial means. I'm buying a memory, nostalgic feeling right here.

The think I like about this bike is the frame. I've seen countless 'chiong' type of BMX frames ( for the uninitiated, the word 'chiong' is in Hokkien, meaning imitation. ) But this design is unique, atleast in my opinion.

I find the weld not bad as compared to some really bad weldings I've seen before. I'm glad to be able to get this bike NOS, including the blue coloured chain.

From the design of the gusset, it's looks like a MT, but from further research, it doesn't look like it because of the rear drop out design. So, what name/brand is this bike? I'm all clueless.

The parts are excellent. 'MX' type calipers. There is even the '1000A' embossed wording at the back of the caliper! 1000A? humm...Check out the tyres too. Old school....

Sumo alloy rims. Neat.

Took her out for some sun and fun. Managed to do some Bunny Hops and Endos. Lucky the tyres are still holding well.

MX imitation race type 2 fingers brake levels. Cool. Hard to get these nowadays.

This crank is one of the parts I love most and also the deciding factor for my purchase of this bike. It's a Tracer brand. Everything is stamped 'Tracer', right up to the nuts. Stay tune for more pics on this ride.....This one's for keeping. That's for sure. BTW, this bike is damn light. Yes. I can lift it up with one arm and load it onto my bike rack.

'Safe' brand double revolving bell

2010-08-15T03:45:00.001-07:00

'Safe' brand double revolving bell, originally uploaded by the_meadows21.

On a recent trip up North, I made a stop over in a small town for a quick bite. Then I noticecd a small bicycle shop in the vicinity. As always, no bicycle shop will go 'un-searched'. I decided to finish my teh-tarik and head straight to the shop before the sun sets. The shop was manned by an old man. He was resting on his rattan chair, smoking his 'gula-garam'. "Pak! I greeted him. As my spoken Malayu is half-shit standard, I deicded to use whatever vocab I can muster to ask him some questions. Fortunately, there was an old Flying Pigeon lying around and I pointed to him the old rusted ding-dong bell, signalling to him that I'm looking for something like that. Guess my sincererity have managed to rub off him and he went into his shop and took out a dust covered bell. I gave it a squeeze and the sound that resonates is very sharp. This is a mark of a good bell. Further rubbing and some cleaning reveals the logo. It's a 'Safe' brand, made in England. The main body is made of cast ron. Heavy and durable. The twin bells are made of steel but they are thick as compared the the China made ones. No wonder it sounded so different.

Kuwahara Owner's Manual

2010-08-03T00:22:00.001-07:00

front, originally uploaded by the_meadows21.

Found this NOS Kuwahara Owner's Manual at the local Salvation Army. It was actually sandwiched together with some DC comic magazines which I had bought earlier. As I was flipping through the pages, this booklet dropped out. As I don't have a Kuwie with me, I think it should belong to someone who owns one and who could that person be? None other than 'Ketchup', who bought the Laserlite from me earleir on....

Sugino stem, Gold

2010-08-03T00:16:00.001-07:00

Sugino stem, Gold, originally uploaded by the_meadows21.

Another great find. Sugino Gold stem, NOS. However, due to the humidity of the place, some form of rust have started to set in. All in all, it still makes a great piece to have for collection. Rare piece. Item have since being sold to avid collector up North. Don't worry, Singapore fans, I still have one more...for my own personal collection. Not for sale.

Vintage Diamond Back sticker

2010-08-03T00:01:00.001-07:00

LGIM0824_2, originally uploaded by the_meadows21.

As I was searching through the tonnes of vintage BMX parts lying around the shop, something shimmering caught my attention. Went for a closer look. Woa! Original NOS Diamond Back sticker! Complete set! Without asking for any discount, I immediately paid the boss and left the shop a happy man. Missin accomplished for the day.
Anyway, the sticker has since been sold to an avid collector of vintage BMX stuff up North.

Old school BMX parts, photos intensive!

2010-08-02T23:56:00.000-07:00

Tange grips, blue (sold)

Shimano 600 crank, gold

Shimano 600 crank, blue with front and back hubs.

Number plate

Promax Aero Turbo seat (sold)

More number plates..

Mesh number plate

Kiddy looking number plate

KALIN seat post

Kuwahara grips

E.T pad set with number plate (sold)

Cobra grips, KO.

BMX racing goggles

Fluted seat post, blue

These are some of the old school BMX parts I've amassed over the years. Some sold, some still in storage.

A vintage, colonial times cyclist hat!

2010-08-02T22:54:00.000-07:00

Finally, after months of scouting around and interviewing those old trishaw folks resting along Waterloo Street, I manged to track down one of their comrades who still wears a vintage, colonial times cyclist hat.
As I can recall, I remembered when I was a little kid, I always see this gentleman who comes by my house selling bottled soya sauce. Yes. Door to door service. Back then, plastic bottles are still in the infancy. So, alot of recycling works back then, I should say so. My mum would wash the empty beer bottles and used it to contain dark/light soya sauce. So, when the 'soya sauce man' comes round, we'll just bring our empty bottles to him for refill. Very environment friendly, don't you think so?

I also recalled seeing the 'Soya Sauce Man' wearing a beige colored hat, similar to the ones shown. So the suddenly recollection jolted me to seek out one of this hat for that nostalgic feel...

This type of hat used to worn by colonial times British government officials. They would wear their white uniforms, complete with knee length socks and white bermudas. There are actually several versions of this type of hat. Some have a longer and broader back portion, which is like the ones used by hunters on the African plains. There are also french versions. Infact, I'm comtemplating of getting a Vietnamese version too. :P

The material of this hat is rather unique. It's made of cock, which makes it light and yet absorbent. I remembered reading about it on the internet that BITDs, the wearer will soak it in water and wears it. It'll keep the head cool as also acts as an insulator from the tropical heat. I've yet to test it out on my rides, but soon. I hope. Just got to find the time as there're some many new projects up and coming. So many bikes to sell with so little time to enjoy them.

NOS Apollo Kuwahara, Blue....FOUND!! (again) :P

2010-08-01T02:10:00.000-07:00

As I've promised the buyer of my Red Apollo, I'll try my best to find another Apollo for him. Guess he is one lucky fellow. Lo-and-behold; Blue Apollo, NOS of course.

Original Promax seat

Original OGK grips from Japan

Serial number at the BB

Well crafted rear drop outs

This is the only part about this bike that I don't like; the seat post and clamp. Cheap material. Maybe to keep cost of production to a minimal?

UKAI rims

Original Dia Compe brake caliper

Bike all tied up and ready for a new home...bye~bye
Bike have since been sold to an avid collector of vintage/old school BMX up North.

NOS Kuwahara Apollo Red...more pics

2010-07-02T02:59:00.000-07:00

Ukai rims...

Serial number at the BB..

Added a new, NOS red BMX seat.

Tange fork....

Simply loves the shape and curve of this seat....
Just an update, the bike's now in the hands of a true vintage BMX collector up North. Going to miss Apollo. But at same time, I have another lead for a BLUE Apollo. NOS. This vintage BMX thing have gotten me all fired up recently. Went to several LBS and did some research. Enquire abit and I'm keeping my fingers crossed as I might be able to get hold of a NOS Haro Master Freestyle! :P

NOS Kuwahara Apollo, Red, FOUND!!

2010-07-01T01:33:00.000-07:00

Found this NOS Kuwahara Apollo in an old bicycle shop in a corner of Singapore. The uncle says nowadays nobody appreciate 'these' vintage anymore. But that doesn't mean he's willing to let me have it cheap! :P Still, I decided to grab it!

The decals still nice and intact.

As I couldn't find the original pedals, the boss decided to replace it with a MKS model.

The original brake caliper looks weak, so I decided to swap it with a NOS Dia Compe MX. Cost me SGD$90 per set. But well worth the price as it's compatible with the oiginal colour scheme.

The skin walled tyres are surprisingly in excellent condition, given that it's been stored in a tropical climate. Pump it up and it's ready to tear the gravel to pieces.

Nice headbadge. Riveted of course.

All ready for some real action down memory lane....

Basta bicycle lock

2010-06-25T07:12:00.001-07:00

Basta bicycle lock, originally uploaded by the_meadows21.

Finally, after months of searching, I managed to find the 'elusive' and very sort after keyless lock. It's brand is Basta and made in Germany. This lock is NOS but because of storage, the owner has lost the combination! OMG! Now I need a locksmith to 'unlock' it, if there's any who's specializes in keyless locks....

New custom tank for Cruiser...Part 2 (final)

2010-06-20T01:53:00.000-07:00

This is the final part of my custom tank . Well, finally managed to find time to complete this project. It's my first attempt but definitely not my last. I'm contemplating using thin sheet metal or brass sheets to make the tank...again if time permits.

Went to the Salvation Army and found some old British Army issued bags. Think it will look good and practical on my daily ride.

Vintage NOS kids bicycle

2010-06-10T02:02:00.000-07:00

Today I was feeling kind of bored, so decided to pay my LBS a visit, hoping to find some nice stuff. Well, I wasn't disappointed by this visit at all.
Placed right on top of the shelve is a cob-webbed covered kids bicycle. What caught my attention are those handle bars. Yes, those nice curves. Killer curves.
According to the boss, this bicycle was made in Japan. I didn't know the weight of this bike untill I tried to bring it down from the shelve. Bloody HELL! This little bicycle is HEAVY!

Taking a closer look at the construction, I noticed that the rims are made up of metal discs. Yes. Metal, not plastic. The rear mud guard is also metal. I guess most of the weight also comes from the two training wheels bracket. They're thick!

Did i forgot to mention that the tyres are SOLID rubber? Ya...solid rubber.

The Lady bug is actually a buzzer cum light. Well, the buzzer is loud but the light is pathetic.

Luv the sissy bar and rear carrier rack. The rear reflector looks cool too. Very vintage feel.

I guessed 'Carron Cycle' is the name of the bike..

Nice chain guard design.

Vintage working lamp

2010-05-26T02:00:00.000-07:00

While scouting for stuff to put onto my bicycles, I stumbled onto a vintage working lamp for sale. Nothing fanciful though. Made in Taiwan. Parts are made up of plastic and metal. Works on D cell.

One side is a standard lamp and when it switches to the 'blinker' mode, the lamp will blink on the other side. There is a selection that allows the lamp to switch on together with the blinker. Cool...

Can this lamp be placed onto any of my bicycles?

New upgrades for my Cruiser...Part 1

2010-05-17T00:58:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I last touched my Cruiser. Just couldn't find the time to spare. But last few weeks was different. Everything at work slowed to a 'breathable' pace. Finally get to get my hands dirty again. If you have been reading my blog, I've always dreamed of owning a Phantom. Since I laid my eyes on those curves, it just gets to you. I have custom build/assembled one look-alike but there's still something missing. Yes. The tank. The 'TANK' that set it's self apart from all bikes in the world. I tried getting one from Ebay but the price is just too high.
In Singapore, it's very rare to see one on the road. Maybe there are, but in some collector's possession, perhaps.

So, since I couldn't get one from the States, might as well custom make one in my backyard.

The tank is still in it's raw, unfinished form. Still alot of work needed to smooth out the surface. BTW, it's made of fibre glass.

While the tank is under going hardening process, I got myself a bicycle rack. Like the one I did for my Raleigh, I decided to do the same for my Cruiser. So I shifted the dynamo lamp to the front. Looks better but have to be careful when moving the bike about or turning in tight corners. The lamp tends to be in the way. I nearly broke the glass! Got to think of a solution to protect it and still looks nice on the rack. Any suggestions?

N.O.S. DUTCH MANUFACTURE CYCLE LOCK 1923

2010-05-07T22:49:00.001-07:00

N.O.S. DUTCH MANUFACTURE CYCLE LOCK 1923, originally uploaded by spiers65.

Saw this pic of a unique and rare wheel lock, which belongs to 'spier65' on Flickr. I've seen a similar piece in Singapore, mounted on a Rudge. Very nice to have on my Raleigh Sports. Still trying to persuade the old gentle man to sell me his Rudge....

Another Raleigh Sports awaiting restoration...Part 1

2010-04-10T16:37:00.000-07:00

As I've mention in my previous posting regarding the Brooks saddle, this is the Raleigh Sports where it was taken off from. I've finally managed to find some spare time to dismantle the entire bike, clean up the parts and have a closer inspection.

You can see from the picture above. The cranks is in good condition with little pitting to the chrome. The pedals are original Raleigh with the logo on the rubber pads. There's also the Raleigh mark stamped onto the crank arms.

Aftern much scrubbing and cleaning, the grease and 'what-nots' finally came off revealing this...

After so long, the details are still visible as compared to my 1st Raleigh Sports. This one has been well taken care off by the previous owner.

Nice, clean caps and colour is still visible on the head badge.

Now that 's all cleaned up, I'm still considering whether to transform it into a fixie, a track bike concept or simply restore it to former glory..... ("P)

Latest purchase, a vintage Brooks saddle!

2010-04-09T06:42:00.000-07:00

Another weekend, another trip up North for 'treasure hunting'! And what a find! As I was visiting the night bazzar, there was a stall tucked in one corner of the lane selling all sort of stuff from old electrical fan to worn and sometimes torn jeans. Just as I was going through the items laid out on the floor, I noticed an old bicycle parked behind the stall.
On close inspection , it's an old Raleigh Sports. What caught my eye was the worn and seasoned saddle. It's a Brooks. YES!! Bingo! Told myself that I just have to secure this bike. Asked the boss whose bicycle it belongs to and I guessed Lady Luck was on my side. HE is the owner!

Asked the boss whether he'll part with me the saddle and his answer is a straight 'Tak Boleh' ( Malay for No ). But I was persistent. Years of polished hard selling tactic finally paid off. Not only I walked away with saddle but also the bike! Yes. Both for the price of ONE! Paid up immediately and left the place a H.A.P.P.Y freak...kekeke. More pics on the Raleigh Sports and it's eventual restoration and transformation...

Phillips, updated pics...

2010-03-20T17:18:00.000-07:00

Since upgrading of parts, the bike's finally not with me. Found it a new home. What's new?
1) Handle bars
2) Brake levers and push rods, linkages.
3) New rims and stainless steel spokes.
4) New Sturmey Archer front and rear hubs.
5) New chain case.

Off the beaten track....

2010-03-11T20:13:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile since I last brought her out for a spin and not wanting the grease to harden due to lack of 'action', I decided to try out the woodlands in the East.

Cycling up the hardened mud track has been a breeze, thanks to the trusted Sturmey Archer 3 speed hub.

Stopping to smell the 'roses', I decided to take a snap shot of the surrounding area....

The new German bell is the latest addition to the Raleigh and it prove it's worth, in terms of ease in activating it and loudness...

Parting shot of the woodlands before going back the civilization and the tarmac....

Check out the bell in action....

Tyre cycle bell from Germany

2010-02-22T04:43:00.000-08:00

Over the weekends, while visiting one of my old haunts for vintage bicycle parts, I happened to overheard a conversation between 2 gentlemen.
"It's been awhile since we last saw a bicycle having one of this mounted on it!"
'It' refers to the strange looking bell that's mounted onto the fork of an old Robin Hood. As I sit there listening to their conversation, my curiosity got the better of me. I just have to butt in and find out more. To my surprise, the boss told me that actually, he's the one who sold this bell to the guy. WTH! All this while, I've been pestering him for vintage bicycle parts/accessories and he didn't offer this bell to me! :P

As you can see, it's meant to be mounted on the front as the cable controlling it is simply too short to allow it rear mounted. To activate tje bell, all the rider have to do is squeeze the trigger mounted on the handlebar. When the trigger is squeezed, the entire bell construction will move towards the wheel, just like a dynamo. This in turn activates the bell and the sound produces is VERY EAR PIERCING! The fast your bicycle moves, the louder it gets. I like it! "P

The entire 'package'.

Now here it 'ROAR"!!

This is the NOS packaging. Just found that 'REICH' means something like "Great Germany" as in "Great Britain". Please correct me if I'm wrong.

This bell doesn't come cheap but it's worth every cents and dollars invested. Now I'm the proud owner of not 1 but 3 pieces! "P

Latest find in the neighbourhood! A Phillips!

2010-02-17T17:31:00.000-08:00

As usual, during my free time, I loved to scout around old estates whereby you might find one or two odd bicycle shops tucked in one obsecure corner. This is one particular shop that I always patronize and what luck I was in that day. A Phillips 26 inch, push rod brake roadster in excellent condition. My excellent means that all the decals and head badge have to be present. As for the chrome parts, as expected of it's age and depending on the previous owner TLC, I am able to make do with it.
Without any hesitation, paid up and told the owner to do a complete restoration for me. Stay tune for more W.I.P~ :P

Grifter-ing around the island....

2010-01-18T16:20:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile since I brought my Grifter out for a spin. The picture above, showing a block of flats in the background, is where I once lived in. It's a great feeling to be able to revisit my old 'home town'.

At the background is the famous iconic Merlion. Read in the papers recently that some places in China and Japan even have a replica of it to showcase and represent Singapore. Some might wonder, "What is a Merlion?". Well, as you can see, the head is that of a lion and the body that of a fish. Inshort, our tiny island state used to be a fishing village long time ago. As for the lion, legend has it that the original founder of Singapore (Temasek), Prince Sang Nila Utama, encountered a heavy storm in the sea and after throwing away his crown, the sea calmed and all sailors were saved. The ship then drifted to a tiny island (Singapore) and the first thing he saw when he sat foot on the island is a lion. That's a good sign and thus he decided to occupy the island and establish his own kingdom....

This is an infamous bridge. Infamous? Yes. During WWII, Japanese soldiers will cut off the heads of prisoners and display them on this bridge.

What a big 'durian'!! Yes, China has it's 'Bird Nest', Singapore has it's own 'Durian'. It's actually the Esplanade.

Again, we're at it, trying to copy and out do others. In the background, it's the Singapore Flyer. It's a large obsevertory. Well, I guessed, it's just another big ferries wheel.

This is a war memorial to commemorate the dead civilians during the Japanese Occupation.

The 'Biggest Durian' in Singapore!

In the back ground is the Singapore Art Museum.

Sunset with Raleigh...

2010-01-17T07:03:00.001-08:00

Sunset with Raleigh..., originally uploaded by the_meadows21.

Riding into the sunset....

New year, new look, new rear view!

2010-01-17T06:49:00.001-08:00

LGIM0351, originally uploaded by the_meadows21.

Finally got myself a leather tool carrying case to complete the look. Still contemplating whether I should remove the rear rack as I find it .....

New year, new look....con't

2010-01-17T06:47:00.001-08:00

LGIM0350, originally uploaded by the_meadows21.

A close up view on the accessories....

New look, new year....

2010-01-17T06:45:00.001-08:00

LGIM0349, originally uploaded by the_meadows21.

2010 is a rather good 'harvest' for me. Finally got my own spinning brass bell. Not one but two! Yes. These bells are really hard to come by. As usual, given my hectic and irregular work schedule, the moment I can sneak in a few hours of free time, I'll take my Raleigh out for a spin. Can't keep her in storage forever, right? Those wheels are meant to be spinned and grease loosen.....

You can Ring my Bell.....

2010-01-15T05:15:00.000-08:00

Here are some of my latest aquisition of brass bells. Starting from the right to left: Dog Brand, Tiger Brand, Lucas King of the Road and Lucas No. 34
To hear the Tiger Brand in action, click on the link.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/19378472@N04/4273565774/

Found another spinning brass bell!

2010-01-01T01:08:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend, my work brought me to Jambi. It was meant to be a short assignment. I never expected to see much from this place which I've been to several times. But a strange hunch told me that this trip will be different.
Since the day I got the "Dog Brand" brass spinning bell from a fellow collector, I've been 'finger-happy'. I'd spin it whenever I get the opportunity to do it. Just love the sound it produces.

Back to my trip to Jambi. After my usual assignment, I decided to ask the locals where I can find some old bicycle shops. Dewi, my local guide, told that there is situated in the outskirts. The shop's been around for ages. I told myself, well, since I'm already here and still have a few days to R&R, why not give it a try. Boy was I in luck. I was fortunate to have taken a picture of the previous 'Dog Brand' spinning bell and decided to show it to the shop owner.
As the story goes, the rest is history.....

My newly accquired, polished brass spinning bell. This one's a "Tiger Brand". The sound is very diferrent from my "Dog Brand". This ones sharper and the ringing can go on for 12 seconds with each spin. To hear the bell in action, click this link...
http://www.flickr.com/photos/19378472@N04/4273565774/

Cruising into the woods...

2009-12-19T01:02:00.000-08:00

Woke up one Sunday and decided to take my cruiser for a spin to the wood lands...

Nothing beats the fresh air of dawn....

Should I go further in and explore the unexplored??

Spinning brass bell, Dog Brand

2009-12-19T00:58:00.001-08:00

Spinning brass bell, originally uploaded by the_meadows21.

Got this spinning brass bell from a new acquaintance. He knew I was searching high and low for this bell and decided to let me have it for a reasonable sum as a token of friendship. The brand of this bell is "Dog Brand". Yes. That's right. Dog Brand. It even got an embossed face of a Bulldog.
This bell has 2 striker. Spin it using your fingers and it gives off a very nice "ring-a-ting-ting-ting" resonance. Will I ever sell it? NEVER. Not now. Not in the future. Money can never get you one of these.

Mosque with nice blend of cultural design..

2009-12-19T00:50:00.001-08:00

Mosque with nice blend of cultural design..
Originally uploaded by the_meadows21

This is also one of the oldest mosque in Singapore. Love it's unique architectural design.

cruising down the side walk...

2009-12-19T00:46:00.001-08:00

cruising down the side walk...
Originally uploaded by the_meadows21

Found this side walk with the red brick wall facinating. Looks very colonial...

One of the oldest church. Bulit in 1888

2009-12-19T00:43:00.001-08:00

One of the oldest church. Bulit in 1888
Originally uploaded by the_meadows21

Singapore was founded by Sir Stamford Raffles in 1819. So, this church was built in 1888...that's OLD. Very old considering Singapore's own history being considered pretty young as compared to our neighbours....

Sultan Mosque

2009-12-19T00:38:00.001-08:00

Sultan Mosque
Originally uploaded by the_meadows21

This is one of the oldest and grandest mosque in Singapore. As must see for all tourist, including myself!

Sultan Mosque..

2009-12-19T00:36:00.001-08:00

Sultan Mosque..
Originally uploaded by the_meadows21

Finally found some free time to bring my cruser out from some sight seeing. I've always wanted to visit Sultan Mosque and what better way to do this is on a set of wheels. Parking near this tourist attraction is terrible and often congested.

Adding more stuff to my Raleigh...

2009-12-16T06:45:00.000-08:00

Looking through some super cool pics of suped up classic bicycles on the internet, I decided what my Raleigh lacks is a front carrier rack. But searching for one is like looking for fungi in moss...haha...So I decided to customize a rear mounted rack to fit it to the front.

Then it's off for some fun in the SUN!

More vintage stuff...

2009-12-16T04:53:00.000-08:00

I have this with me for some time and finally decided post it. Bought it NOS at a local flea market. It was a surprise to me to be able to find one locally as far as I know, it really RARE. But up North (Malaysia that is, for the uninitated), this type of lamp can cost up to RM200 a piece. Used.

So to find one NOS, I just paid up and leave the place a happy man. Although I'm not going to fix it on my Raleigh, but looking at it and owning one, is good enough.

Latest accessory...spinning brass bell!

2009-12-14T01:02:00.000-08:00

Recently I met a fellow collector and from our conversation, I mentioned that I've been searching high and low for a very sort after 'spinning' brass bell. I told him that I once saw it on someone's website and after which, I've lost the links to the webpage.
To my delight and surprise, he told me he actually had a few. A FEW?! My heart was pounding and suddenly, I find myself feeling like a kid once more. Jumping for joy...of course not infront of him but literally.
So, I decide to fix a date and met up with him. He is indeed a collector of bikes! Vintage bicycles. Lots of them too. Rudge. BSA. Para bikes. Raleigh....even the Lucas Silver King, he had a show case lined up side by side! I was having difficulty containing my drool....

Then he took out a wooden case and 'Wah-lah!!' My spinning brass bell! He had 5 of them, all in used condition. What the heck , right? So I told him straight in the face. Are they for sale or do I have to 'steal' them right under his nose? haha....he got the hint at my desperation to have one and decided to sell it to me as a token of friendship. Got it for SGD$150. Expensive? To me, it's not the price. It's the rarity. As I did not have enough cash with me at the moment, I only bought this 'Dog Brand' brass bell. Really, the logo on it says "Dog Brand" and there is a picture of an embossed Bulldog.

Once back home, dismantled it for some close inspection to see how it actualy works. Then lub it and give it some light polishing. Love to see the antiquated look and not too overly polished.

Spinning it with my fingers and it gives off a wonderful 'Ring-A-Ting-Ting' resonance. Told him I'm going to get his Lucas King of the Road spinning bell, thumb activated on my next visit...

Head badges..

2009-11-19T07:07:00.000-08:00

Head badges.., originally uploaded by the_meadows21.

Started to collect head badges. The more I look at them, the more it grows on me. I not sure why, but, a bike without a head badge is akin to a man without his manhood. SERIOUS. It's what identifies the bike and the entire 'package'.

Accessorizing my cruiser....

2009-09-19T00:51:00.000-07:00

Ever since bringing my cruiser out for ride around the neighbourhood, I just can't seem to pin point what's missing. Did I left out anything? What more does this bike need to complete the 'look'? Well, that 'missing part' appeared when I was cycling after a light drizzle. Mudguards. Yes those humble, weight additions are what I need to stay clean and dry!

Imagine hitting a puddle and next moment, you find your face and back sprinkled with those 'who-knows-what-blackish' water!

Immediately went to my favourite LBS and ask the friendly boss whether he had any NOS mudguards lying around. At first he wanted me to take a pair of aluminium mudguards but I declined. It's just too 'modern' for this bike. Then, as usual, I requested his permission to 'search' his shop. He gladly agreed as I'm his regular customer for the past 10 years. Searching through his pile of spare parts, 'junk' and stacks of bicycles, I managed to see a pair of dust covered chrome mud guards smiling at me!

Pulling it free from the pile of 'junk' lying on top of it, I was facinated to discover that there wasn't any rust on it. Just dirt and cobwebs. It even comes complete with the over-sized rear reflector. Good.

This bike is one fine ride. Turns heads at traffic junctions maybe because people have been accustomed to seeing roadies (aka racers) and MTBs but a cruiser? I intend to add a Lucas bell and currently searching for a nice chain guard to complement the cruiser look. Actually, I'm not building a cruiser. I'm more interested in the Covette look. Vintage, up-right riding posture.

Cruiser, vintage style.

2009-08-31T19:27:00.000-07:00

I have always longed to own a cruiser. Love the laid back look. The curves. Yes. It's those mesmerizing cantilever curves. Thus I set out to 'hunt' for my beloved frame. Before all this, what got me inspired is the book that I bought from States, "Standard Catalog of Schwinn Bicycles~1895-2004" by Doug Mitchel. Can't find this book in Singapore. Maybe we have a relatively small group of collectors. Or maybe there arn't any Schwinn collectors. Anyway, the pictures inside the book is really a turn on. Pages after pages, pictures that stands out and calls out to you. Although purist may say that Schwinn had more bikes than those found inside the book. But, what the heck. This will do for now. I need references for my project and this book will do. For now.
So, which model am I looking at? Well, it the famous middle weight Corvettes which was produced in the 1950s.

I had a really hard time sourcing for this frame. I remembered many years ago, bikes fitted with tiny motors uses this frame. That was before the government decided to ban all petrol powered bicycles due to some irresponsible goons who rode their bike fast and furious, which resulted in death of a pedestrian. After months of asking around the LBS, lady Luck was on my side. Found a shop which still happened to have some NOS in the store. Paid up immediately and left with all the necessary parts like BB bearings, head set, crank and chain ring and fork. I was literally smiling all the way home. Frame and fork full chrome with no traces of rust or tarnishes.

Back home, immediately set off by fixing it with my Shimano Nexus 4 Speed internal hub with drum brakes. The 26 inch rims are Araya and spokes Stainless Steel. This hub runs super silent. Gear changing is excellently smooth. Never skipping a gear. Unlike the SA that I always encounter. Maybe it due to the setting? Anyway, a quick check on the internet found some info on the hub. Basically, it's maintenace free. That's a plus point.

This saddle belongs to a Hercules. Bought it from a LBS for a song because the previous owner finds it heavy and change it to a normal PVC covered saddle. Well, it's indeed heavy. That's becasue of the 2 solid steel spring. But when I rode it, it like riding on cloud 9. Fits my bum nicely with plenty of space to shift around. Does not pose any harm to the groin. Absorbs all the bumps. I would use this a a comparison; Sitting in a Rolls Royce as compared to sitting in a pick up truck. That's the comfort level it gives.

What's a 'vintage' without some vintage parts, right? Fix a Raleigh Shopper handle, which I bought from Ebay UK. Comes complete with brake levers and stem. Also added a vintage dynamo powered head lamp. The 4 speed grip shift comes together with the hub.

A 'Vee' brake doesn't look authentic so I decided to change it to a spare MX caliper I have lying around. Braking power is good.

Took her out for a spin. The front rim is alloy and the spokes Stainless Steel. Tyres are road compatible and low profile.

This bike runs smoothly and the shifting of gears are a real treat. Simple. Rigid. I will be adding more stuff to it, eg. bell, rack soon. Right now, it's proudly displayed in my living room. Just got to find time to bring her out more often...

Vintage Shimano road bike restoration...

2009-07-26T19:34:00.000-07:00

During one of my 'hunting' trips up North, I stumbled upon an old road bike chuck in one corner of a bicycle shop. It was covered in dust and cob webs. Approached the owner and asked to see the bike. You was rather shocked that I would even want to part my $$ for this piece of 'junk'! The boss even persuaded me not to buy it and recommended me to other newer road bikes in his shop. Being a persistent fellow, I insisted that THIS is the bike I wanted...

The bike's in pretty, run down state (too bad I forgot to take pics before I strip it down). The previous owner has converted it into a single speedster. Handle bar was a MTB type. Seat condition is good as gone. Pedals missing.
But this is the type I'm looking for. A challenge. A chance to start fresh. Good thing is that the frame, fork and rims only need some washing and removing of surface rust with some cleaning agent.

Proceeded to my favourite 'treasure trove' and bought lots of NOS stuff...

Dia Compe brake lever set

MKS track pedals

Pizo stem, Made in Italy

Shimano front hub

Shimano front derailleur

Alps International Ltd, Japan drop handle

Finally, after weeks of restoring it, decided to take it out for a spin before parting ways as I've sold it to a collector and he's coming to collect it.....

List of things that I've added/changed not shown in the pictures:-
1) NOS Shimano brake cables, thick ones.
2) NOS Made in Japan chain ring
3) New chain
4) New rear tyre
5) NOS Shimano pedals
6) Brooks B18 Messenger saddle ( the only plastic Brooks I've known! )
7) OGK grip tape
8) NOS Shimano front/rear derailleur shifter.

SOLD!!!

NOS Kuwahara Laserlite found!

2009-05-27T03:21:00.000-07:00

Went JB again to hunt for vintage finds and guess what I found! NOS Kuwahara Laserlite!! Stillunpacked and has all the factory packaging and protective papers wrapped around the frame!
Grab the bike and paid the boss immediately, even though he charges me quite high for it. You don't get bikes like this in such prestine condition everyday,ok. Sped my way back to Singapore, smiling all the way....

Diacompe brakes and original brake pads...

The stamp of a genuine product..

Araya rims...

Sugino crank set. After 20 plus years in storage, the chrome is still excellent, given that the bike is kept in a danity shop house in a tropical climate.

The coverted Laserlite...

As-is condition. All wrapped up,waiting for a new home..

Latest update. The bike is no longer with me and has found a new home! Sold to an avid collector of Old Skool BMX. Bye~bye bike Kuwi...gonna miss you..

BMX revival...Old Skool

2009-05-20T06:46:00.000-07:00

Kuwahara...the name that spells competition, winning and championship! This is a MUST HAVE for all growing up tweens in the 80s. I too was one of those Alphaville loving tweens who crave so much to get hold of one.

What is an old skool BMX without one of these? Sugino crank set is another MUST HAVE...

This magazine have been with me all this while. All seasoned due to countless reading and do you know the age of this mag? Make a guess.... "P

Joker on the loose!

2009-05-07T05:25:00.000-07:00

Finally, brought my Joker out for a spin! Decided to change the handle bars back to the original version rather than the ape hanger ones because it attracted too much attention! Serious.

These are the "Creepy Crawler" tyres that I find them very attractive on this bike. They're knobby and really give you the grips when cycling on grassy land.

Added a side kick stand and changed the seat from it's original chopper seat to a Flying Pigeon. More comfortable for my big butt...keke..

Sunset and this is the parting short before I head home for dinner....

Adding stuff to my Raleigh..

2009-04-21T22:01:00.000-07:00

Got this pre-independence bicycle registration plate from an old man. Back before Singapore's independence from the British rulers, all bicycles are required to be registered. The words MCS means Municipal Council of Singapore. The plate is not painted red but is actually enamelled. That's why the top and bottom part of the plate cracked and broke off when the previous owner over tightened it.

Added a leather tool carrying pouch to pack in my tools for the long ride..

My Joker low rider bicycle

2009-04-11T01:56:00.000-07:00

Joker's wheels are 20 inch equipped with 'Creepy Crawler' tyres, 20 x 2. Tyres are designed by Dani Cosma

Sturmey Archer 3 speed shifter

Joker decal on down tube

Joker headbadge....no joke, really..

The rear reflector glows not because I added batteries to it but reflection from the camera..

NOS vintage head lamp..

NOS double reflector mirror..

Bike on original bull stand..

Now this bike is on Ebay.sg

More KOBA kick stand!

2009-04-06T20:21:00.000-07:00

NOS Koba kick stand for Sale!!

Overall length 20 inch. It's meant for a 26 inch bicycle.
All necessary mounting brackets included.

Look at the chrome!

There's some visible pitting on the brackets....

Deluxe model...

Nice "Koba Stand" cover for the spring...

The item is currently put up for auction in Ebay.sg
Thank you for viewing! Any questions, feel free to email to me or add my blog
to your fav. Cheers.

Vintage saddle, heavily sprung

2009-04-01T00:04:00.000-07:00

This is a vintage, heavily sprung saddle meant for cushioning hard asses from rough roads and pot holes! Yup, tested this saddle and in my personal opinion, it gives the best cushioning our ass can take! haha...Over humps, the springs works it's magic. It absorbs all the shock and transforme the shock wave into a 'horse-riding' motion. I call it 'horse-riding' motion because you really feel like riding a galloping horse...you'll bounce and that's good.

Look at the solid spring construction!

Over the years, rust have started to set in. But not much pitting that will damage the spring. Just surface rust.

The mighty twin shock absorber! What's missing is the name plate. I think it belongs to a Hercules bicycle.

Check out this vintage saddle. It's on Ebay.sg. I hope this saddle can benefit some vintage 'hard-ass'....

My 28 inch Hero...

2009-03-30T20:24:00.000-07:00

Brief history...
This bicycle comes from the well known Hero Group and is the largest bicycle and related products manufacturing company of India. Company started making bicycles in 1956.
About this bicycle...
This is one of their earliest models which features a fully enclosed oil chain case which no longer features in their newer models.Upgrades on this bicycle..
1) I have changed the 2 rims to new ones.
2) Spokes are now Stainless Steel, new.
3) Rear hub changed to new ones and upgraded to sealed bearings. The hub is meant for trishaws, thus the spokes are much thicker than the originals. I purposely requested for this configuration because I wanted this bike to last as long as myself.
4) Brake pads are in good condition.
5) Block rubber pedals are NOS. It's a Raleigh KO version. Note the pointed ends on pedals, which are similar to Raleigh's.
6) All metal parts that are chrome, are in excellent condition except the lamp holder, which is slightly tarnished at the bottom.
7) All bearings are lubed and serviced by bicycle shop.

Raleigh styled 'Made-in-China' rubber block pedals.

Fork decals...

New rear hub with sealed bearings, rims and trishaw Stainless Steel spokes.

Hero Jet...

Nice head badge

Nice rear mud guard badge...

NOS bugle horn...

My 28 inch Hero on her maiden ride since restoration....
Currently, my Hero is being put on auction in Ebay.sg. If you have any enquires, feel free to drop me a line. Do check out my 'Vintage Accessories' link too. Some of the items are on sale.

I tried my best to provide the most accurate description. If you do need to see pics of certain parts, do leave down your email so I can send you pics for clarifications. Thank you.

SOLD!!!

Latest discovery up North!

2009-03-21T18:43:00.000-07:00

Just came back recently from my 'hunting' trip up North and guess what I found? RobinHood and Elsewick Hopper! Yes! 2 super vintage brand not commonly foung in Singapore! The Robin hood was found abandoned in a old hut. I tried to gain access but wouldn't that be considered house breaking?? Or hut breaking for that matter....plus there's a pack of wild dogs roaming around. I wouldn't want to contact rabies you know...

This Elsewick Hopper belongs to my uncle. It's been left in the shed for many years. He used to ferry his chickens, pigs and what-nots to the nearby market. Looking at the condition of the bike, it pains me to see it rotting away...

A close up view of the head badge. Nice....

Recently purchsed accessories to add to my collection..

2009-03-20T20:09:00.000-07:00

Some of these items are currently put up for sale. Do email to me for quotation. Thanks. NOS, tested working very good. Uses 2 D size battery.

Inside looks clean and free from rust, except some stains due to age.

Mounting bracket, written ' Made in Britain'

Every Ready battery operated bicycle lamp. Think early 70's?

Vintage Ever Ready bicycle lamp, battery operated. Think shld be early 60's.

Inside very clean and nice.

The cover say, 'Every Ready, Britain'

The switch is made of bakelite, a thermosetting plastic commonly used for making switches.

70's bicycle mirror

This cool looking 70's bicycle mirror is a must have for all vintage/classic bicycle collectors! The reflectors looks great and the chrome is CHROME! Bought it NOS.

Found this NOS dynamo generated front and rear lamps in an old bicycle shop in Muar.

This bugle horn is VERY loud! Good to have if you're cycling on the road because the typical 'ding-dong' bell can't be heard with drivers nowadays blasting the steroes in their sup-up cars. I used it to blast those pesky taxi drivers who's always driving way too close for comfort....

My vintage 'ring-a-ding' revolving bell. When presses, the bell will spin around giving it a 'ring-a-ding-ding-ding....' sound. ...

Classic kids bike

2009-03-18T19:14:00.000-07:00

Found this cute looking kids bike in an old bicycle shop. NOS (New-Old-Stock). From the design, it looks like a Schwinn Stingray. Love the bananna seat and high back rest. Too bad it's for a 5 years old kid...damn...

After all this years in storage, the chrome is still good as new.

The decals on the down tube reads "Cherryping"....

The head tube has a sticker that shows that this bike is "Made in Taiwan". Guess it's a KO version of the popular Schwinn model Back in the 70s, there's alot of imitation stuff coming out of of ROC. This bike could be one of them.

Classic bicycle speedometer

2009-03-17T19:30:00.000-07:00

Bought this classic looking bicycle speedometer during one of those weekends trips down the local flea mart. NOS.

Classic square battery operated lamp

2009-03-15T19:33:00.000-07:00

My best friend, knowing that I'm now a new convert to all things vintage, gave me this 70s looking battery operated lamp. NOS and comes with the original box. Although there's some visible rust inside, alittle oiling and sanding is all it takes to make it good as new. Wait. It IS NEW...ehehe..

Finally, restoration work is completed!!

2009-03-04T00:52:00.000-08:00

These are the items, which I bought from a dainty little bicycle shop in Johore Baru yesterday. Took them out and inspected it for rust and what-nots. To my surprise, the bearings rotated freely! After all these years in storage ( atleast 30 years ), the rubber block pedals spins like as if it just left the production line! That's the wonderful thing about vintage parts. They're built to last. Period.

This is a Made in China copy of the Raleigh pedals. Everythings the same except the heron is missing and in it's place, Weili. That's the brand of this pedal.

Love the look of those oversized spring! Will be reserving it for my next restoration work, if I do find another vintage bike for sale!

Vintage bicycle rack, NOS. Made in Shanghai.
Finally, after weeks of greasy fingers and frantic buying spree from Ebay, my Raleigh Sports restoration work is completed! Took her out for a spin for the 1st time. Wow! The feelings great. Runs smoothly and the SA shifter is working great!

Tried out the dynamo head lamp and it works. Phew.....

Isn't she lovely......

My latest 'catch'!

2009-03-03T08:28:00.000-08:00

Today I happened to be rather free, so I decided to drive to JB to do some 'shopping'. Drove around and spotted a dainty old bicycle shop tucked in a corner of a role of shop houses. Went in and chatted with the boss, who happened to be chasing flies ( no biz ). Spoke to him about classic bicycles and I also enquire about whether he's keeping some old bikes in his shop. According to him, there's been a recent surge in demands for vintage/classic bicycles of late. As such, much of his 'old' stocks are nearly gone. Damn! I'm too late! But after much 'interagation, he relented and said he might have one or two NOS accesories somewhere in the store.
To cut the story short, I snapped up whatever he has to offer.
1) Made in China solid rubber pedals with similar designs as Raleigh (there's a pointed hook at the end )
2) Vintage hand pump
3) Vintage 1950s bicycle rack.
4) Solid spring seat, taken out from a Hercules. The previous owner wanted to change it into a cushion covered seat.
All NOS ( New-Old-Stock ) except the seat.
I drove away a happy man....

Sturmey archer 3 speed shifter!

2009-03-02T22:39:00.000-08:00

Finally, after a week of anxious waiting, my 3 speed Sturmey Archer shifter has arrived!! I particularly chose the white cover (it's from a 1990s' Raleigh Caprice) because I wanted it to stand out and also blend with the white coloured cables.

Once the shifter is in, next comes the grips. I got this pair of NOS Raleigh grips from a friend. Knowing that I needed a true blue Raleigh item to complete the look, he decided to let me have it for a token fee. What's left for this bike project are the pedals. Still pondering whether to get a original NOS Raleigh pedal or some PRC copy.....

95 percent to completion!

2009-03-01T22:03:00.000-08:00

Added decal to the top tube...

I had to use another set of SA front brake hub instead of the original ones because of the terrible rusty condition and thinking that I'll have to spend a 'bomb' in getting it done up, I might as well replace it. Found a used but in tip-top condition SA front brake hub during my regular trips to Sungei Road...

Since the viewing cover of the chain guard was already missing when I bought the bike, I decided to fabricate one myself.

Added the KOBA kick stand.

Work in Progress....

2009-02-22T08:52:00.000-08:00

This is a vintage bicycle license plate. Back then, bicycles needs to be registered to prevent theft.

Got some customised decals added to the frame. Luv the sound coming from the bell! Tinkrrrrrring...

Customised pin-stripping, aka DIY...hehe...

This is the half-complete Raleigh Sports that's been keeping me VERY BUSY of late. I'm still waiting for my rims to be retrofitted with stainless steel spokes. The shop owner says he's having a hard time searching for the right length...

Finally, got my own Raleigh Sports!!!

2009-02-15T06:47:00.000-08:00

This is the actual condition of the bike before my restoration work. Seems like I'm going to be really busy!!

Latest find, another KOBA side stand!

2009-01-28T07:38:00.000-08:00

Today I was feeling kinda of lucky so I decided to pay a litle visit to my favourite hang-out, Sungei Road. This place is a "one-of-the-kind" place in Singapore. It was once called "thieves market". Maybe because back then if you lose something, you'll definitely able to find it back at this place. It's a place where money changes hands quick and buyers won't question where the goods comes from. You sell, I buy. No question asked. Sometimes you can really get real good "deals" at this place, if you know who to approach.
Anyway, as I was walking along the many stalls selling knick-knacks and what-nots, I noticed something familiar lying in one corner, among a stack of old clothing put up or sale. Went straight for it.....
The wording says "Deluxe", I think because some of the words have faded. But what the heck, right? You don't find a KOBA side stand up for sale everyday...

Comparing my 2 KOBAs....

One seems to be longer than the other...

The Beginning of a passion and journey...

2009-01-19T00:17:00.000-08:00

I have always been interested in 2 wheelers. Either motorcycles or bicycles. The thing about these 2 wheelers are that they evoke a kind of special feeling between the rider and the riden. Over the years, I have collected and sold off quite a few classic bikes and have even built ( or customize ) a MTB on my own, from scratch. Then one find day, everything stopped. Got married and settled down. Family life took over and as the saying goes, the rest is history.....

Until one fine day, as I was surfing the net, I accidentally stumbled on to this website, The Flying Pigeon Project. This spells the beginning of my journey into the world of 3 speed bicycles and given me a new prespective at looking at antiquated bicycles lying, rotting in the neighbourhood.

Sturmey archer AB hub

2009-01-18T23:01:00.000-08:00

This is my 1st set of Sturmey Archer, AB hub with brakes. It was marked 54 3. I guess it means 'Made in 1954, March'. Bitten by the 'Flying Pigeon bug', I immediately set off to searched for the now elusive Sturmey Archer hub. Went to several old bicycle shops to ask around and
1) either the owners are not willing to search for it
2) or they just don't see to point in helping this poor fellow (me) realise his dream..
I eventually went to one very old bicycle shop and chatted with the old man. He was scratching his head as to what I was trying to tell him ( in Singapore, many senior citizens can't speak English. Even if so, I think my explanation wasn't clear). Anyway, as I was talking to him, I noticed a weird looking piece of gear on the floor, tucked in a dark corner. I took it out and 'Lo-and-behold!' A Sturmey Archer!!

Told the old man that this is what I have been searching for and he now understands. As the conversation grew, he started to show me more pieces of accessories related to the gear hub, eg. pulley, cables,etc.. I was smiling from ear to ear and after that paid up for all the parts and requested that he carry on searching for more of these gear hubs and keep it for me. The old man agreed and we parted. Upon reaching home, I immediately set up my work bench and started to strip down the gear hub.

Let me remind you that I've never handled one before, let alone strip it down. But being mechanically inclined, I proceeded with the 'operation'.

This is the part of the planetry gear system. All this years, the parts are still in good condition, except for a chipped gear tooth. Other than that, everything seems ok to me.

I was cautious enough to lay the parts in accordance to the sequence of 'disassembling'.

Koba Side stand

2009-01-17T23:52:00.000-08:00

Like I always said, the 'Flying Pigeon' blog is my source of inspiration. I have been following it without fail. The author is good at details and as such, I have gained a new insight into collecting and hopefully one day, built my complete antique/retro/classic bicycle. It might not be a 'Flying Pigeon' brand but as long as the parts a 'antique', that's fine with me.

Got this 'Koba' brand from a local bicycle dealer. Told me it's made in Japan. Cost me quite a sum, comparing to the other makes of side stands available in the market. But I loved it. Not because it's Japanese but the make is very solid. The chrome. The weight. Real 'old-skool' stuff. soild and heavy as hell...keke..

As for the make, I really have no idea. I've tried searching on the internet but whenever I type 'Koba', someone's name will appear...please do show me the 'path' if you happen to read my blog. Thanks.

Koba kick stand, Part II

2009-01-04T22:39:00.000-08:00

Latest addition to my KOBA stand collection. It's meant for a 26 inch bike. Love the way the designer used the KOBA brand to cover up the spring.

Decided to add a piece of tinted red acrylic to the back. Now the words look more visible from far. Can't wait to add this to my bicycle...

original Grifter decal

2008-01-19T07:34:00.000-08:00

original Grifter decal, originally uploaded by the_meadows21.

More original pictures of the decal and state it was in when I bought it home....

Grifter in original paint

2008-01-18T07:32:00.000-08:00

Grifter in original paint, originally uploaded by the_meadows21.

Before I do a complete make over, I decided to take some pictures of it's 'Before-After'. Just incase I screw it up, I still have some reference! hahaa....

Raleigh Grifter

2008-01-17T07:27:00.000-08:00

Raleigh Grifter, originally uploaded by the_meadows21.

Finally, after months of searching and doing some detective work in locating one, I managed to secure a rare Raleigh Grifter. Yes. Rare, in Singapore. You still can see a Raleigh Chopper once in a while, but a Grifter, once in a blue moon. Infact, I've never seen one. I guessed it's rarity is due to the fact that it's more popular cousin, the Chopper over shadows it's pressence. I happened to develop an interest in it when I stumbled onto a website on Grifters. When I was a kid, I've ridden a Chopper before but never heard of Grifters. For the uninitiated, a Grifter is also a 70s' bicycle. Take it as a distant cousin and ancestor of the BMX. Well, one thing's for sure. Those thin forks will definitely not withstand the abuse we so often use it on our BMX.