Coolio's,
I have assembled a post war period bike with an inch pitch drive train. Wipperman "weib star" block chain, Williams 24T and an 8 tooth cog that's stamped "Made in England" but I can't see any other markings. I guessed right and the chainline is perfect but I have no knowledge of bikes from this era and more specifically of inch pitch drive trains.
I read through most of the archives looking for tips and advice for things to keep aware of. The late Sheldon noted that block chains were some 25% or more lighter than than similar roller type chains and also noted that such chains are long wearing. Some of the archive posts mentioned the "noise" and this is more to why I am writing to ask.
I haven't as yet fitted a brake on the bike so my test rides have been on the street amongst traffic, with no full acceleration or high speeds (so far) and I don't know anyone running an inch pitch setup so to make comparison or ask questions about. The mechanical noise is kinda cool and at moderate pace has a distinct staccato thrum (almost like an air cooled boxer engine, a very small one). I have been advised by an Old Timer to run the chain a little slack (well ... slacker than a 1/8" fixed gear setup) and to go light on the chain lube. Any other tips or tricks and things to keep in mind. I want this to be a rider and being that finding the "right" chain took me quite a while I wish to look after the drive train as the bike is close to original spec. and of some importance to me.
A few odd questions: does the master link outer clip need to be positioned in any specific direction? And where does one find the little metal plates to attach toe clips to pedals without specific holes in the cages - the Lyotard's I am using have a central threaded hole so i'll need the plates to secure behind the pedal cage so the toe clip bolt/nut has something to grab to. Lastly, what brake blocks are suited to fitting GB Hiduminium brake shoes - I tried whittling some Lee Chee rubber to suit with a Stanley knife ( = Exacto but from Oz) but they're a little narrow to seat in properly.
I'm still finishing smaller details on the bike to make it correct. If anyone has the following in good, clean condition they would like to sell please let me know:
- Old logo Christophe Toe Clips in medium (with backing plates if you gotz) - a set of matching Wingnuts - 5/16" front, 3/8" rear. prefer ones with inbuilt washer - an inch pitch freewheel (yes, freewheel) with 8, 9 or 10 teeth for standard thread
Lemme know what you got.
I'll post some pic's and details of the bike shortly when I've finished fettling and sorting it out.
Ciao,
Ben Kamenjas
Kensington, Australia