Since we have a Holiday shortened week, I’m treating everyone to four days of Huffrray! First up is this Huffy 612 sent in by Eric H. in Portland, Oregon.

I bought this funky Huffy 10-speed at Goodwill for $15 because I wanted to use the drop handlebars and brake levers on a sweet Fuji from Goodwill that I will restore this winter. Overall the bike was in good condition, but with brittle tires and a slightly rusted chain. I forgot to snap a before pic but I have included an image I found on ebay, belonging to the same model (selling for $80, BTW!).

I installed upright touring style handlebars and break levers from an old Huffy 3-speed. Two new brake cables plus 2 used handgrips cost me $4 at my local shop. Tommorrow I will sell it to my supervisor at work for $50.

I looked at the various numbers printed different places on the frame, and based on them, the bike was made either 1989, 1990, or 1999. Based on my forensics of internet photos of Huffy bikes, it is my estimation that this bike was made in 1999. Stylewise, this bike is the equivalent of a bleach blonde man, ala M&M.

Regarding the images, the one with upright handlebars represents the finished product. The image with drop handlebars represents the bike in its natural state. This is one of those rare case where I think I improved the look by switching out the handlebars. But someone had already switched seats, installing a comfy touring saddle.

Thanks again Eric