The Huffy has been finished for days. Except for the gray cork-tape which "yours truly" forgot to order. Thanks to Alfred E Bike for getting it here so fast.
Note the welded-on kickstand mount, very much like an old Schwinn. And the steel rims
are identical to some of the Schwinns from my era. Although I doubt they are quite the same quality.
I`m not positive, but the colors used on the graphics say "early 1980`s" to me.
I really prefer a head-badge to a sticker. But I love the "solar panel like" reflector. And I do like that it says "Huffy Bicycle Co. Dayton Ohio"
I wish I could say "I restored this derailleur" But it already looked like this, for the most part. I did do a little polishing though. But no rust removal. I am glad I chose to replace the 4 piece gray pleather handlebar wrap. I think the cork looks and feels 100% better. And although the original gum-walls looked pretty good, they were getting brittle. Besides the rest of the bike looked so good I figured it was worth it. If the bike had been less than pristine I would probably have just left them on the bike. Anyway it is finished and it rides and shifts well for what it is.
I am always amazed by these "old but never ridden" bikes. When I was a kid I rode the wheels off my bike. A bicycle (not unlike a motorcycle)meant freedom to me.I wonder what gives kids that feeling now days?
