u/patch_ofurr

I was lucky to pick up a free old bike. One of only 500 made of this one-off model that attempted to market a gravel bike ahead of it's time. It was beaten then garaged for a long time. It has no rust. All parts appear operable, (I think it's all original components?), but it has lots of surface grime and chips. The paint is in rough condition. Aside from that I think it might be good to go with new bar tape, tubes and tires and tuneup. The hoods are roughed up and the seat is old and dusty but intact so those might be considered to replace.

Net search says this bike is kind of desirable, 1-2k+ if it was in great condition.

Even more lucky, this is my size, 58cm and I think that's rare(?) I do love this kind of bike. I have a comparable 1980's steel Fuji hybrid with hi vis paint. I have enough bikes and don't NEED it but ....

What if I paid for restoration, could it be made attractive for selling without putting in too much to be economical? Is there any certain shop who would care about what this is?

Do you think the condition makes it better to aim for lower budget work just to keep it?

Could it have trade value with some place/person really into this model?

I can change a tire and oil a chain but otherwise don't do mechanical work. I could maybe try if it's economical to learn for a flip... I am lacking income right now. What do you think?

I'm doing a 100 mile bike ride, which will take 8-10 hours, and got a toy for it. A bluetooth speaker helmet. It's like listening to headphones but better for the road. You have full awareness.

Some people like hard techno to keep cadence while riding. I just had a great time climbing and bombing down hills while listening to the history of ancient Persia from https://fallofcivilizationspodcast.com/.

For the upcoming long ride I'm going to do John Water's Carsick, his story of hitchhiking across America.

Have any good tips?