[CR]Bates B.A.R.

(Example: Production Builders:Teledyne)

Date: Wed, 17 Nov 2004 09:40:15 +0000
From: "Oakley, Chris (UK) LEAVER" <chris.oakley@baesystems.com>
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Thread-Topic: Bates B.A.R.
Thread-Index: AcTMiWoxmAs6U65WR4+z7QhTKIBN6Q==
Content-class: urn:content-classes:message
Subject: [CR]Bates B.A.R.

Hi All,

I've recently purchased a rather tatty 1947 Bates B.A.R. frameset. I know very little about the classic bike scene so am hoping to gain advice and guidance on the renovation of this frame and how to build this frame up.

Here goes...

The frame looks as if it's been crashed at some point, the top tube is dented and the down tube rippled close to the head tube. Can this be repaired / realigned keeping the existing tubes or do the tubes need to be replaced? If the tubes need replacing, are Cantiflex tubes still available?

The frame has a headset that I am not familiar with. The bearing cups fit inside flared ends on the head tube. What is the situation if the headset is worn and needs replacing? Does anyone know if suitable headsets are available?

My plan (after stern advice from Dale) is not to modernise this frame but to build up as a period machine. As such can anyone tell me what period colours were available at the time ? If period decals are available? I know that Bates can supply decals but are unsure if they are of the correct period.

Also, does anyone know what components might have originally been fitted to this frame? The frame has very narrow rear drop outs so I am assuming that it was built as a single speed, although I wonder if it may have had sturmey archer hub gears fitted.

I know I am asking for a lot of info but any help will be much appreciated.

Kind Regards

Chris

Essex England

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