Building my own Hikari (Part 1)

次回、この記事の日本語版を投稿します。

Recently, thanks to two vintage Japanese bicycle fans, S-san and W-san, we have had a rare opportunity to take a step back in time and view pristine examples of high-end models made by Hikari.

Over the next few weeks I will attempt to piece together my own Hikari.  Below is a photo of the Hikari model I am aiming for.

This is what I am starting with, a NOS (New Old Stock) frame I found on Yahoo auction two years ago.  Same frame as in the photo above.  Over the past two years I have collected parts and will assemble in the next few weeks.

Fortunately, a good portion of the frame still retained the original protective wrapping.

First thing is a good cleaning to get rid of over half a century worth of dust, grime and dirt.

Even though it has never been used, the grease in the head bearing and bottom bracket had degraded over the years and needed a good cleaning and re-greasing.

Bottom Bracket (Before)

Bottom Bracket (After)

Head Bearing (Before)

Head Race (After)

Head Tube (Before)


Head Tube (After)
The three layer black enamel paint on these old bicycles never fails to amaze me.  Just rubbing compound compound brings the original glossy finish back to life.
Note the brass badge and the blue enamelled badge and gold lettering bearing the manufacturer's name.

Seat Tube (High Quality made by DAI NIPPON KIKAI)

Click on photos below to enlarge.




 

In the next English post we well take a look at some of the parts I managed to acquire and will use to build my own Hikari.  Until then stay trued and happy wheels!