What to do with this Conti?

[toptoobnoob]

Hey Hubbers

 

I've got an old 'Conti' which was painted custom painted decades ago. I'm considering some options about what to do with this bike and would love some advice.

 

https://ibb.co/tcq8Gsh
https://ibb.co/Y8xmVS1
https://ibb.co/2vpTTVc
https://ibb.co/5nT1s09
https://ibb.co/gZJBH3D
https://ibb.co/DtSVxzz
https://ibb.co/8B4NFs0
https://ibb.co/7yVdQ7W
https://ibb.co/48ZgFJH

 

I did CTCT on it a few years back so it's mechanically sound. I've never built a bike before so I'm itching to get my hands dirty. This bike is older than me so the components and bike standards are not familiar. Here are some options I'm thinking about:

• Gravel bike conversion? The steel frame looks solid but I'm not sure about how it'll hold up, what size tyre will fit etc. Is this a good idea? If I go this route I would consider getting a paint job and really spicing it up. This is tempting as it might be a fun bike to travel with when that become an option again.
• City commuter/flat pedal type bike. I imagine this wouldn't be much work.

 

On another note, there doesn't seem to be much info about Conti around. Does anyone know some history?

 

Thanks!

Edited March 22, 2021 by rootworm41

[Christie]

Looks like a nice classic steel bike.

Using it to ride gravel would not be good imo - the components would get worn out brakes wont havd a lot of stopping power, and I dont think it would take gravel tyres.

Commuter would be a better option.

 

From forums it seems there were 2 different Conti manufacturers one from Florence and one from Bergamo.

[Barry]

Restore the bike to it's former glory. New red paint with origanal decals.

[Christie]

+1 vote for a full restore & original paint ????

[Christie]

Your frame looks like it originated in Bergamo. I found this catalogue page from the www

[Barry]

Option 2 neo-retro with new paint original decals throw on new Campy Record and some deep section wheels

[toptoobnoob]

Thanks for the advice. Just found the original fork in the garage with the fleur-de-lis and Conti logo. I really like the red and chrome look, so if that's a possibility...

 

Does anyone have recommendations for someone that can do a good paint job and chrome restoration?

[Barry]

If you in Cape Town then Bogus can do the spray and decals.

If you plan on going with new modern wheels you need to widen the rear stays before paint.