BRQ’s Sears Freespirit FS12

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I’m beginning to think that if BRQ had his way, every bike would have a mattress saddle and upright bars. Not that there is anything wrong with that! I’m just making an observation. This is his latest victim project, a Sears Free Spirit FS12.

Good Day to all at the OTSG! …it’s me again. I’m starting a new trend for myself, something that I have miserably failed to do. At the suggestion of Ryan Surface–I will try from now on to send a before and after picture of any bike that I submit. Until recently, I never even photographed the bikes that I restored/sold/donated/kept.(all 300 give or take?) I came across this Freespirit FS12, and even though I was not planning on purchasing it–it had great potential, I just couldn’t pass it up. I have seen a few Sears bikes, had a few–even admired a few at this Gallery. I always thought that they were just bottom-end department store bikes, never really giving ’em a chance. This one interested me, A. though it was old and dirty it was basically a nice bike, B. it had an eclectic mix of components that I thought was kinda cool. The original components (or what appear to be) are as follow: Dia-Compe brake calipers/levers SR three-piece alloy crank(dual steel chainrings) ACS alloy stem Sachs-Huret front/rear derailleurs and stem shifters 27 inch steel rims (front hub stamped Excel Inc. 84/rear hub Shimano) Steel drop bars (brand unknown being I did not want to disturb flawless factory wrap on bars) Alloy kickstand What was added/changed: touring bars, brake levers to accommodate bars, spring saddle of same vintage or older, old steel pedals, tires, cables and mixed white/blue housing to note:  rather than use touch up paint that never matches exactly, I like to strategically put reflective tape and stripes to cover/seal bare metal or scratches whenever possible Hope this makes the cut, it’s a twelve. Peace, BRQ

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  • BeaterRezQ

    …concerning Cam’s mention of not being a “fan of these derailers”, actually to be quite honest with you–I’m not a big fan of any component that is built with plastic or a steel/plastic combo. (imho) Something about plastic screams disposable.
    I picked up this Sears FS12 for next to nothing, restored it to complete functionality from the parts bin of my local shed. Other than two new tires it is basically original, minus upgrades–bars/killer mattress saddle. At work we have a pool, throw your name in a hat, if you are interested. I look for one honest person to pull name out of hat (that usually takes longer than the restoration of said bike)…if your name comes up, YOU WIN BIKE. Eventually, this will most likely be the fate of this FS12.
    BRQ….biking should be fun.”

  • Trailer Park Cyclist

    Some day in a future far away ye shall be called Saint BeaterRezQ, He that brought upright riding to the Many.

    The common man turns his back on a drop bar bicycle because they are scary and imply strenuous activity. Those bars you install promise gentle afternoons and dappled sunshine, friendly conversation and and picnics. Never stop.

    yer admirer, TJC

  • BeaterRezQ

    O’ bringer of cheer and good tidings…
    Your warm, encouraging words soften my heart and bring a slight grin to my chiseled scowl.
    B

  • Ryan Surface

    Nice Resto as always BRQ and thanks for the before picture! quite a transformation. Where most people would see “garbage” you saw an elegant townie with the promise the TPC so eloquently described below. Chapeau sir.

  • DOCSPROCKET

    sweeet conversion man. i like the blue as you know from my latest project picks,
    waiting on silver housings to finish her, hope the client like it as much as i do
    keep up the great work love seeing your builds

  • BeaterRezQ

    Thanks all for your positive feedback!
    Doc, looks like another candidate for OTSOTM!!
    Ryan…will try harder to submit before/after pics from now on.
    BRQ