François C’s Orions Racer

Posted

The first in a series of OTSG Firsts more to come this evening.

Year: Unknown Make: Orions Model: Racer

A little bit about it: I bought this old ten speed from a bike shop in Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada, at a very low price. I bought a seat, because the original one was all open on the right side. I also bought a pannier rack to carry my books and my back pack when I go to school. Then, I bought a new Bar Tape. I had to change the bolt and the nut that squeezes the frame on the seat pole because the old one was rusted and I stripped it. Finally I had to buy two cotter pins to lock and hold the pedals. (I broke both original cotter pins) I got this bike 2 weeks ago, so I don’t really know the bike’s history. Now I just hope that the frame is tough enough because I’m on my bike 20-40 km every day. I believe that an old bike is a good didactic tool for people who want to learn some mechanic bases.

PS: My English is not the best because it’s my second language. (I’m speaking French mainly). Thank you.

Thanks François

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  • http://waterloobikes.ca Rob

    Great bike. And great English. Some tape really dresses up an old beater.

    Better than mine and it’s my first language

  • julie s

    Great headbadge! I think you may need a bigger frame by the looks of that seatpost. Love the fenders. Your english is just fine/wouldn’t have known it is your second language if you hadn’t said so. Nice ride.

    • older1

      That’s a good call, Julie. François could probably consider a more appropriate 58 or 60 cm frame size when he chooses his next bike.

  • older1

    Congratulations, François! Your english is much better than many who live south of your country’s border!

    Just keep your chain oiled, and don’t forget to carry: at least one spare tube (and/or patch kit), air pump, pressure gauge, with a rag and some basic tools to fix a flat (and increase the load in your backpack)!

    With that much daily travel, in the very near future, an inspection and overhaul of the bearings, beginning with the axle bearings, then the bottom bracket, and finally the headset and pedals, should be performed.

    Also, since daylight is diminishing this time of year, you might also consider adding some reflective tape to the bike and/or personal or mounted lighting if you are going to ride into the evening.

    Other than that, if the rims run true, the spokes are still tensioned, and the brake pads are still acceptable, any quality, lugged-frame OTS should be durable enough to last a lifetime.