Vintage Bicycle Makeover

Get inspired to give an old, worn bicycle a much needed updated look like this vintage bicycle makeover.

A few years ago my husband bought us matching 15-speed bicycles.

It was my first time using a multi-speed bike and, let me tell you, it was not an easy learn!

I don’t think I ever really got the hang of it.

That whole “trying to teach an old dog new tricks” thing and all.

In the end I just gave it up because I didn’t enjoy it.

Enter my mom’s old bicycle.

Vintage Bicycle Makeover – The Original

Ah! An old fashioned 1-speed!

Breaks on the pedals.

Nothing on the handlebars.

I like!

This gem is a 1978 (still has the original manufacturers sticker on it!) Western Flyer Galaxy Flyer bicycle is not just made in the U.S.A., but in Tennessee!

It was originally my Nana’s, but she passed it on to my mother, who passed it on to me!

But it could use some touching up, yes?

A couple of weeks ago my husband gave the bike a HUGE makeover.

I chose the paint color, seat, and handlebars, but he did all the work!

Vintage Bicycle Makeover – Paint Update

He took the bike apart and painted everything that was once green to Rustoleum’s Harbor Blue.

He removed all of the rust and repainted everything that was once silver to Rustoleum’s Textured Metallic.

We found the brown leather seat and matching handlebars at Walmart as well as the new white wall tires.

Vintage Bicycle Makeover – New Tires

Vintage Bicycle Makeover – New Leather

Love it!! Love the vintage feel of it.

Love the color.

Love, love, love!!

Now I just need a basket to go on the front.

Thanks, hubs!!

>> See where I party! <<

Originally published May 16, 2010