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Post by triitout on May 20, 2022 23:46:14 GMT
I've been staring at this Facebook Marketplace ad the past few weeks. No one's knocking down the doors for it. It's a Sebring in my size within reasonable driving distance. Somehow that model has eluded me. Contact for info from the seller has not been helpful as he's not knowledgeable on most anything. Based on the head tube shot, it looks to be the 23 1/2" size I like. One thing is holding me back so I'm seeking the collective wisdom of our fine group. There's a photo that clearly shows the right seat stay with tape and what looks like an unpainted chrome section just above the dropout. I'm wondering if this was some kind of repair or just an attempt to change the look. Something isn't right as I've never seen a chrome section on a seat stay. Any thoughts??? www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/1772780639726781/?ref=search&referral_code=marketplace_search&referral_story_type=post&tracking=browse_serp%3A0c5bb8ee-6254-46e3-a3dc-3ced40fb7ebfUnrelated but second time this week I got caught in some heavy, not forecasted rain storms but my Pro and Gran Touring got me home in one piece. So much for weather.com.  |
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Post by oldroadietehachapi on May 21, 2022 3:08:27 GMT
Absolutely, yes, affirmative, roger, wilco and go get it; said one addict to the other. The shiny bit looks like a sticky chrome chain guard, strangely on the seat stay. Even if the frame were to be broken, the parts are worth much more than the asking price. Good Luck Jim
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Post by brianbutler on May 21, 2022 11:52:22 GMT
My short answer is yes, you should certainly buy it for $25, especially since you have almost all the other models. I have a Sebring that I have ridden about 4500 miles over the past few years. It is a nice-riding bike but not a performance machine. The frame is is not "aerospace alloy" but is better than carbon steel gas pipe. The one you are looking at has steel rims so you might eventually replace them, along with the heavy tires. Once you have it fixed up with lighter wheels and good components you will have a comfortable workhorse for road or trail.
Here is mine, although this photo is a little out of date. I have changed the shifters to the down tube.
Brian
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Post by triitout on May 21, 2022 15:01:18 GMT
Thanks guys! I've messaged the seller to try and close the deal. I'll keep you posted.  |
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Post by wheelson on May 21, 2022 18:36:03 GMT
Thanks guys! I've messaged the seller to try and close the deal. I'll keep you posted. I agree, yes! This model has the threaded bottom bracket, so easily upgraded. I see the shifters are the excellent Suntour ratchet model. Also, the “erector set” water bottle cage is worth twice the asking price. Someone (Cusqueno?) here has a beautifully redone red one that is just way past outstanding. The lugged frame makes up for any added weight. Best, John “wheelson” |
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Jem
Viscount
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Post by Jem on May 21, 2022 21:14:48 GMT
$25...you'll be able to find that down the back of the sofa? So, in a word, 'yes' , go for it.
I NEVER trust the weather app on my iPhone, it's often wrong.
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Post by brianbutler on May 21, 2022 21:25:26 GMT
Thanks guys! I've messaged the seller to try and close the deal. I'll keep you posted.  I agree, yes! This model has the threaded bottom bracket, so easily upgraded. I see the shifters are the excellent Suntour ratchet model. Also, the “erector set” water bottle cage is worth twice the asking price. Someone (Cusqueno?) here has a beautifully redone red one that is just way past outstanding. The lugged frame makes up for any added weight. Best, John “wheelson” It is Robt that has the nice Sebring with the porthole chainring. Also, good eye, John. I almost always notice those Suntour ratchets but in this case someone actually improved them by adding the wing nuts. The standard configuration is just a slotted head screw so you can't adjust the friction without a screwdriver. Otherwise they are perfect and I have them on nearly every bike I own.
Brian
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Post by wheelson on May 22, 2022 1:17:30 GMT
I agree, yes! This model has the threaded bottom bracket, so easily upgraded. I see the shifters are the excellent Suntour ratchet model. Also, the “erector set” water bottle cage is worth twice the asking price. Someone (Cusqueno?) here has a beautifully redone red one that is just way past outstanding. The lugged frame makes up for any added weight. Best, John “wheelson” It is Robt that has the nice Sebring with the porthole chainring. Also, good eye, John. I almost always notice those Suntour ratchets but in this case someone actually improved them by adding the wing nuts. The standard configuration is just a slotted head screw so you can't adjust the friction without a screwdriver. Otherwise they are perfect and I have them on nearly every bike I own.
Brian
Yes, my apologies to Robt. I could see it in my mind’s eye, red with white trim and the added integral rear brake hanger. I’m sure I have a “borrowed” photo of it on my computer somewhere. Your red Sebring is quite nice as well. I’m rather partial to red bikes. Best, John “wheelson” |
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Post by triitout on May 22, 2022 1:58:23 GMT
Looks like there is much love for the humble Sebring. I'm driving up Monday for the pickup so it looks good to go. I've stared at that ad for weeks trying to resist but you all know that's just not easy to do! I feel out of practice buying Viscounts on line as it's probably been over 5 years since I added to the group? Having recently retired, I'm actually able to ride and tinker to my hearts (and legs) content. It seemed like a crazy quest to acquire every model from the 1976 lineup but after this pickup, I'll be down to just missing the Gran Prix. What brings me the most joy is that I've stayed healthy enough to go out and ride, rotating all of the models just like a kid in a a candy store/1976 Viscount dealer bike store. It really has been my fountain of youth. Thanks again for all the good feedback you guys provide. Much appreciated!
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robt
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Post by robt on May 23, 2022 8:57:13 GMT
Many thanks for the 'kudos' re. my Sebring, chaps! To save you looking for a photo, John, here's one:  IMG_4471 by RMT@261, on Flickr As I've reported here before, it's the bike I've had since I was 16, with a few touch-ups along the way. I'll be interested to find out what the explanation is for the silver highlights on the seat stays. The drive side chain stay on mine broke just next to the dropout, which I attributed to forcing a modern (130/135mm OLD) wheel into it at some time:  Untitled by RMT@261, on Flickr I had the break repaired as part of the restoration:  Untitled by RMT@261, on Flickr While he was at it, the framebuilder also added a rear brake cable bridge and rack bosses at the top of the seat stays, downtube gear lever and bottle cage bosses, and top tube cable guides, before his colleague dressed it all in Ruby Red and Ivory paint:  IMG_4360 by RMT@261, on Flickr I still use it for regular rides, and would echo all that people have said about the frame's smoothness and easy handling. |
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Post by triitout on May 24, 2022 0:55:43 GMT
Driving 240 miles round trip today to pick up a $25 Sebring would sound nuts to most folks but not to this group. That's why I'm not embarrassed to share these "adventures". The bike is home and secure. As Brian has previously attested to, Facebook Marketplace deals often blow up before fruition. This one gave me a few moments of angst. As per our arrangement, I let the seller know I'd call when close by. No answer. Second try, also no answer. I pull up to the house and there's no car or anyone in sight. Nobody answers the door. I stare at the Mrs and say, "Nice day for a drive upstate, eh?" I guess we're off for the nice rail trail walk and ice cream part of the trip. Just as we're pretty sure this ain't happening, the door opens and we're back in business. Young guy who couldn't be nicer to deal with. His wife wanted the bike out but he really wanted to see it returned to it's past glory in the right hands. It had been his grandpa's bike and he remembers it being a well enjoyed. I really like to know the "story" behind the bike. We agreed to stay in touch so he can see it back on the road. Nice vibes when a bike comes from a cared for history. Jim, you were spot on about the seat stays. Grandpa dressed it up with some chrome look tape I guess to try and give it an upscale look. It just peeled right off with no frame issues like Robert's chain stay fracture. Quite the repair Robert. In addition, he handpainted some gold trim around the lugs, again to make it fancier like one of those Italian racers going for 10 times the price back in the day. Wheelson, the erector set bottle holder is truly a way cool bonus. I'll probably relocate it to a more ridden Viscount just to enjoy it now. Jem, in this day and age $25 gets you 5 gallons of gas and about 150-200 miles. I know the Viscount will be going way longer than that! Brian, it was great to share a first look photo with you since I have your number. Who else would appreciate the feeling of a great bottom feeder deal! For me, the moment of truth is loosening the seat bolt and stem bolt. A bit of penetrating oil and then a little rubber mallet wack and they both are moving free and easy. The derailleurs shift, the brakes brake so everything should be manageable. A quick wipe down and a quick front wheel change to an old Birmalux/Viscount with quick release were enough to get it ready for a first day photo with my crappy cell phone camera. It'll get there probably sooner than later.  IMG_0793 |
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Post by wheelson on May 24, 2022 2:04:08 GMT
Driving 240 miles round trip today to pick up a $25 Sebring would sound nuts to most folks but not to this group. That's why I'm not embarrassed to share these "adventures". The bike is home and secure. As Brian has previously attested to, Facebook Marketplace deals often blow up before fruition. This one gave me a few moments of angst. As per our arrangement, I let the seller know I'd call when close by. No answer. Second try, also no answer. I pull up to the house and there's no car or anyone in sight. Nobody answers the door. I stare at the Mrs and say, "Nice day for a drive upstate, eh?" I guess we're off for the nice rail trail walk and ice cream part of the trip. Just as we're pretty sure this ain't happening, the door opens and we're back in business. Young guy who couldn't be nicer to deal with. His wife wanted the bike out but he really wanted to see it returned to it's past glory in the right hands. It had been his grandpa's bike and he remembers it being a well enjoyed. I really like to know the "story" behind the bike. We agreed to stay in touch so he can see it back on the road. Nice vibes when a bike comes from a cared for history. Jim, you were spot on about the seat stays. Grandpa dressed it up with some chrome look tape I guess to try and give it an upscale look. It just peeled right off with no frame issues like Robert's chain stay fracture. Quite the repair Robert. In addition, he handpainted some gold trim around the lugs, again to make it fancier like one of those Italian racers going for 10 times the price back in the day. Wheelson, the erector set bottle holder is truly a way cool bonus. I'll probably relocate it to a more ridden Viscount just to enjoy it now. Jem, in this day and age $25 gets you 5 gallons of gas and about 150-200 miles. I know the Viscount will be going way longer than that! Brian, it was great to share a first look photo with you since I have your number. Who else would appreciate the feeling of a great bottom feeder deal! For me, the moment of truth is loosening the seat bolt and stem bolt. A bit of penetrating oil and then a little rubber mallet wack and they both are moving free and easy. The derailleurs shift, the brakes brake so everything should be manageable. A quick wipe down and a quick front wheel change to an old Birmalux/Viscount with quick release were enough to get it ready for a first day photo with my crappy cell phone camera. It'll get there probably sooner than later. IMG_0793 What a great story. Always a good thing when a plan comes together. That makes the ride so much sweeter. Perhaps the best situation is that the bike is complete and you don’t have to spend a fortune to bring it back to life. Well done! Best, John “wheelson” |
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Post by oldroadietehachapi on May 24, 2022 5:32:36 GMT
That is a great result! Somethings are simply meant to be.
All The Best
Jim
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Post by triitout on May 25, 2022 2:07:40 GMT
Choices, choices.....
Saddle: White, black, silver/black, Old Viscount leather (all in my extra saddle pile) or something crazy?
Bar tape: White, black or something crazy?
Tires: Gumwall for now, but open to black or colors on sidewalls colors
Let the design fun begin. Feel free to weigh in. It's a blank canvas. What's your favorite combo for dark blue frames???
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Post by oldroadietehachapi on May 25, 2022 4:14:00 GMT
I try to keep a vintage look that fits the age of the bike. Look at old ads and brochures and see what inspires you. There is a treasure trove of images and brochures at bulgier.net. Keep us posted! Jim |
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Post by wheelson on May 25, 2022 13:53:28 GMT
I try to keep a vintage look that fits the age of the bike. Look at old ads and brochures and see what inspires you. There is a treasure trove of images and brochures at bulgier.net. Keep us posted! Jim I pretty much agree with Jim in keeping the overall period “look”. I personally like white trim on a dark blue bike, picking up on the white in the decals. I have a “honey” leather saddle and bar tape on my Schwinn Voyageur SP). Of course, I have a lot of red on my blue Viscount. Black walls look pretty cool, as on the late ‘80s Treks. There are many paths, and beauty is certainly in the eye of the beholder and there is no sin in whatever you do. Best, John “wheelson” |
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Jem
Viscount
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Post by Jem on May 25, 2022 19:23:42 GMT
Not only do I like a 'back story' about a bike, but I enjoyed the story about picking up the bike too. Great result and pleased it worked out for you. I like your philosophical attitude when it looked like it first appeared to have been a wasted journey.
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Post by triitout on May 26, 2022 2:24:37 GMT
I've got my saddle choices laid out. Keep a stash of old Nashbar saddles that I pickup whenever a decent one shows up on ebay.  IMG_0794 I'm strongly leaning towards the silver/black one as it plays off the Aerospace Pro Blue/Silver model color scheme which I do like a lot. I've got black cloth tape in stock and nothing else so tradition and convenience will in all likelihood prevail for now. Took a step forward using some Scothbrite pads and Fantastic to clean up a donor, unneeded Birmalux/Viscount wheel set with a Shimano 14-28 freewheel which came off my indoor trainer Aerospace GP. Threw on some halfway decent pair of nylon gumwall tires that I can't for the life of me remember where they came from, and was happy to find the old tubes that came with the Sebring still hold air! Nice to have a convenient solution to the bolt on rusty steel wheels and dry rot tires it came with. The bike is in the shed this evening so no pics yet. Jem, I try and keep that "philosophical attitude" so as to avoid meds and road rage! I too love the back story and after I get it ready and show the seller some pics, I'll see if he has any pics/stories to share on grandpa and his Sebring. I find writing fun so watch out if you encourage me! Cheers, Michael |
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Post by brianbutler on May 26, 2022 13:06:24 GMT
I think the silver/black is a good choice. I'm glad you swapped out the wheels. I forget what hubs came with my Sebring but if yours are alloy you can convert them to QR with axle kits and keep them for another project. I have used the inexpensive axles from a Walmart seller successfully. Further down on the page cited below they show some other options with skewers, etc.
Brian
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Post by triitout on May 27, 2022 1:40:32 GMT
I think the silver/black is a good choice. I'm glad you swapped out the wheels. I forget what hubs came with my Sebring but if yours are alloy you can convert them to QR with axle kits and keep them for another project. I have used the inexpensive axles from a Walmart seller successfully. Further down on the page cited below they show some other options with skewers, etc.
Brian
The old steel rimmed wheels that came with the Sebring as well as the sets from my Gran Touring twins are at the back of the queue for any projects. I'm lucky enough to have a few sets of Viscount wheel sets with Viscount sealed bearings and Birmalux rims that would be first up for truing/rebuilding when the need arises. My best set needed nothing but a cleanup. Nice upgrade for the Sebring. Really not much left to do. Ideally, I'll do the BB bearing and get the drivetrain cleaned up. The headset bearings seem smooth and it has that knarled rounded races that are impossible to grab with anything but a vice grip to adjust. I'm not looking for trouble/perfection as I'm a believer that perfect is the enemy of good. Hope I can find a close match touchup paint and then order a nice top tube Sebring decal. The real challenge is it's getting harder to ride them all! PS: The link no longer gets to the right spot at Walmart  |
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Post by brianbutler on May 27, 2022 11:46:15 GMT
I think the silver/black is a good choice. I'm glad you swapped out the wheels. I forget what hubs came with my Sebring but if yours are alloy you can convert them to QR with axle kits and keep them for another project. I have used the inexpensive axles from a Walmart seller successfully. Further down on the page cited below they show some other options with skewers, etc.
Brian
The old steel rimmed wheels that came with the Sebring as well as the sets from my Gran Touring twins are at the back of the queue for any projects. I'm lucky enough to have a few sets of Viscount wheel sets with Viscount sealed bearings and Birmalux rims that would be first up for truing/rebuilding when the need arises. My best set needed nothing but a cleanup. Nice upgrade for the Sebring. Really not much left to do. Ideally, I'll do the BB bearing and get the drivetrain cleaned up. The headset bearings seem smooth and it has that knarled rounded races that are impossible to grab with anything but a vice grip to adjust. I'm not looking for trouble/perfection as I'm a believer that perfect is the enemy of good. Hope I can find a close match touchup paint and then order a nice top tube Sebring decal. The real challenge is it's getting harder to ride them all! PS: The link no longer gets to the right spot at Walmart  Odd that you had trouble with the link. I just tried it and it worked OK, but it's not important anyway. Sounds like you have a good plan for the Sebring. You should be able to turn the knurled top headset race by hand if the threads aren't corroded and the locknut is loosened. It's a good a safety against over-tightening the bearing.
Brian
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Post by wheelson on May 27, 2022 12:59:12 GMT
The old steel rimmed wheels that came with the Sebring as well as the sets from my Gran Touring twins are at the back of the queue for any projects. I'm lucky enough to have a few sets of Viscount wheel sets with Viscount sealed bearings and Birmalux rims that would be first up for truing/rebuilding when the need arises. My best set needed nothing but a cleanup. Nice upgrade for the Sebring. Really not much left to do. Ideally, I'll do the BB bearing and get the drivetrain cleaned up. The headset bearings seem smooth and it has that knarled rounded races that are impossible to grab with anything but a vice grip to adjust. I'm not looking for trouble/perfection as I'm a believer that perfect is the enemy of good. Hope I can find a close match touchup paint and then order a nice top tube Sebring decal. The real challenge is it's getting harder to ride them all! PS: The link no longer gets to the right spot at Walmart Odd that you had trouble with the link. I just tried it and it worked OK, but it's not important anyway. Sounds like you have a good plan for the Sebring. You should be able to turn the knurled top headset race by hand if the threads aren't corroded and the locknut is loosened. It's a good a safety against over-tightening the bearing.
Brian
Always fun to hold the knurled race without damaging the appearance. I like to use a large slip joint curved jaw plier padded with a shop rag. I have a good collection of these pliers, Channel Lock and Knipex, mostly found at yard sales and flea markets. Being a tool junkie, I attract them like a magnet. Best, John “wheelson” |
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Post by triitout on Jun 1, 2022 1:09:52 GMT
Maiden voyage completed! I broke the Sebring's second life in with a nice cool 36 mile loop along the Ocean Parkway bike path. 90+ degree day everywhere else but the shore was fine. Projects go a lot quicker when you're retired for sure. Only took me a week. I ended up doing the BB and headset bearings. Looked like the original 40+ years dried up grease in the BB (bearings on a retainer, thank goodness) so I went for the headset as well. I hate loose bearings re assembly. On the bright side, I only found one bearing on the floor that failed to make it back inside. I can't feel any difference so not revisiting. Heavy degunking of overall grime, adjust the brakes, lube the cable housings, attempted touch up paint with somewhat of a matching color. It's one of those cases of it looking better the further you step back. Waiting on new Viscount down tube and Sebring top tube decals coming from the UK, along with silver handlebar tape. I did a bit of research on the erector set water bottle cage that Wheelson pointed out was probably worth more than the bike. You're right John! It's the original Italian REG model from the '60's, not a knockoff. E Bay has one listed for $125 but I'll be putting mine back on the Sebring. The fit felt spot on like I'd been riding it for years. I was surprised about how comfortable and stable the ride felt. Also a nice surprise was the weight. With the Viscount/Birmilux wheel set, it came in at 27.8 lbs which is somehow less than some of my Aerospace bikes. It feels like it will be a go to bike for sure. A well spent $25 with not much more spent to restore. Thanks to all who pointed out that it was a bargain. What was I thinking??? Win! I'll post pics when it get's it's decals and tape on in a few weeks.  IMG_0805 |
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Post by wheelson on Jun 1, 2022 1:40:11 GMT
Maiden voyage completed! I broke the Sebring's second life in with a nice cool 36 mile loop along the Ocean Parkway bike path. 90+ degree day everywhere else but the shore was fine. Projects go a lot quicker when you're retired for sure. Only took me a week. I ended up doing the BB and headset bearings. Looked like the original 40+ years dried up grease in the BB (bearings on a retainer, thank goodness) so I went for the headset as well. I hate loose bearings re assembly. On the bright side, I only found one bearing on the floor that failed to make it back inside. I can't feel any difference so not revisiting. Heavy degunking of overall grime, adjust the brakes, lube the cable housings, attempted touch up paint with somewhat of a matching color. It's one of those cases of it looking better the further you step back. Waiting on new Viscount down tube and Sebring top tube decals coming from the UK, along with silver handlebar tape. I did a bit of research on the erector set water bottle cage that Wheelson pointed out was probably worth more than the bike. You're right John! It's the original Italian REG model from the '60's, not a knockoff. E Bay has one listed for $125 but I'll be putting mine back on the Sebring. The fit felt spot on like I'd been riding it for years. I was surprised about how comfortable and stable the ride felt. Also a nice surprise was the weight. With the Viscount/Birmilux wheel set, it came in at 27.8 lbs which is somehow less than some of my Aerospace bikes. It feels like it will be a go to bike for sure. A well spent $25 with not much more spent to restore. Thanks to all who pointed out that it was a bargain. What was I thinking??? Win! I'll post pics when it get's it's decals and tape on in a few weeks. IMG_0805 Another great chapter to the Viscount story! I’m so glad this worked out for you. Prime motivation to get off the more modern stuff and onto one of my Viscount “inventory”. I was on my Cannondale today for a short work commute and it’s stiffness continues to beat me up. Time to recover on good old steel. Best, John “wheelson” |
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Post by brianbutler on Jun 1, 2022 11:26:50 GMT
She's a beauty, Michael. We'll have to do a Sebring ride.
Brian
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Post by oldroadietehachapi on Jun 1, 2022 20:36:24 GMT
Excellent!
Ride Happy
Jim
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Post by triitout on Jun 2, 2022 0:50:27 GMT
John, I seem to be increasing my Viscount/modern ratio every year. Last year for the first time, it was more than 50% Viscount to modern (58%/42%). This year it's trending at 67%/33%. It feels good and comfortable but I've got several sprint triathlons coming up so I've got to dust off the modern stuff for a bit!
Brian, sounds like an idea whose time has come. Maybe we can find something halfway unless you decide to make it to Long Island. Twin red and white Aerospace GP day works too! I'm happy to ride any model you might like to try as well. After all, I now have everyone except the Gran Prix!
Jim, thanks for the kind words. Unlike your amazing rebuilds, my restorations still look like they came from the scratch and dent section. Keep up the inspiring good work and enjoy the ride!
I think I'm personally more comfortable with these basic, comfortable Viscount bikes than my carbon and titanium bikes I use competitively. The Jekyll and Hyde part of me will continue to battle it out as long as I can still race competitively as well as enjoy a nice casual Viscount ride. Lets all stay at it and in good health to carry on this merriment! Amen.
Cheers,
Michael
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Jem
Viscount
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Post by Jem on Jun 2, 2022 15:10:16 GMT
Michael, I'm so pleased that it was a good ride, and the bike felt like you'd been riding it for years- otherwise a few of us here might have been feeling a touch guilty for our wholehearted enthusiasm to encourage you to go for it.
I love that photo by the way, great stuff. Nice to know the bottle holder is the real thing too and is now getting some proper appreciation for what is a classic design
Jem
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Post by triitout on Jun 3, 2022 13:39:03 GMT
Michael, I'm so pleased that it was a good ride, and the bike felt like you'd been riding it for years- otherwise a few of us here might have been feeling a touch guilty for our wholehearted enthusiasm to encourage you to go for it. I love that photo by the way, great stuff. Nice to know the bottle holder is the real thing too and is now getting some proper appreciation for what is a classic design Jem Jem, I always get great advise from this group. I'm still grateful you personally helped facilitate the Mojave GP deal way back when. FYI, it gets ridden once a year on a clear, no humidity, dry day and then back on the wall hanger to be admired the next 364 days. I've always found collaboration a very important tool in all of my decision making so why not apply it to old bike decisions as well! As well as I cleaned up and lubed the chain, it was not up to the task with its persistent squeak. Put on a new KMC Z6 and no more noises and even smoother shifting. Put the first 100+ miles on it already. Nice! Tracking shipping updates and waiting for the last goodies to arrive and complete the project. |
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Post by brianbutler on Jun 3, 2022 14:26:24 GMT
The Z6 chain is a good choice, You can also use a KMC Z8.1 on any 5/6/7/8 speed setup. It has the normal 3/32 roller width for those sizes but the plates are somewhat thinner and lighter so it is easier to adjust the derailleur limits to avoid chain rub. I think the Z8.1 shifts a bit smoother, maybe due to the outside shape (ramps?). Not sure about durability. I get about 1500 miles on mixed pavement/stone dust before it exceeds 0.75% "stretch" according to the chain wear gauge.
Glad to hear the Sebring is a good ride.
Brian
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