New Guy, New Project

ToeCutter66

New Member
Local time
3:03 PM
Joined
Nov 19, 2009
Messages
18
Location
Potomac Falls VA.
Hello All,
I am starting a new project. I found this 1939-40 Columbia "Viking" at an antique auction and picked it up for $20. The bottom bracket is broken, and it does not have the original wheels or chain guard, but I want to move forward with motorizing it. I would like to keep as much of the original patina as I can, and I want to add creme colored tires. I have a flux core welder that I have used on chopper projects with average results, but for this one I am going to borrow a gas shielded rig from a friend. I also want to turn the fake gas tank inside the top tubes into a real gas tank. I am going to start taking it apart this weekend. Once the frame is repaired, I plan on riding it around without a motor to stress test the rest of the frame to see if it can handle motorizing without major frame failure.

I look forward to utilizing the collective knowledge on this forum to make this project both fun and successful.

Thanks
Kevin

Bike.jpg
 
Hello All,
I am starting a new project. I found this 1939-40 Columbia "Viking" at an antique auction and picked it up for $20. The bottom bracket is broken, and it does not have the original wheels or chain guard, but I want to move forward with motorizing it. I would like to keep as much of the original patina as I can, and I want to add creme colored tires. I have a flux core welder that I have used on chopper projects with average results, but for this one I am going to borrow a gas shielded rig from a friend. I also want to turn the fake gas tank inside the top tubes into a real gas tank. I am going to start taking it apart this weekend. Once the frame is repaired, I plan on riding it around without a motor to stress test the rest of the frame to see if it can handle motorizing without major frame failure.

I look forward to utilizing the collective knowledge on this forum to make this project both fun and successful.

Thanks
Kevin

Bike.jpg

That's gonna be nice. What kind of drives are you considering?
 
I am such a newb at this motorized conversion that I am trying to digest all the options. I was originally thinking of some type of happy time type system. But if anyone can offer any suggestions or that would be great. I am still looking through this entire forum to see what is available. I hope to end up with something that will look like a board track type of bike. I am using this as a sort of proof-of-concept, to see how difficult, reliable and fun these conversions are. If all turns out well, I happen to own a Felt MP and a Giant Stiletto that would be next to be completed. I want to stay budget conscious, but I also want to end up with something that is reliable, unique and fun to ride.

I will try to search, and read through all great info before I post any questions. I am concerned about trying to convert a 60 year old bike, but I think it just has such nice lines, that I have to atleast try.

If anyone lives in the DC area and would like to hang out and offer advice, or play guitars etc, please PM me and we could meet up.

Thanks
Kevin
 
What a beauty. Might not be strong enough for the speed/bump combo.
If it seems OK in that regard, my opinion is that a centre-mounted engine is best.
Not keen on the idea of the weight of engine and fuel tank over one wheel, especially if you intend to ride on bumpy terrain. The thickest , (widest), tyres that will fit would help, too, along with a nice, soft seat.

I can picture this old girl with a HT motor, the tank that you suggested, wartime camouflage paint, headlight with blackout slit, sprung leather saddle etc.
Could come up really well.

Otherwise, listen to Quanah, although fitting an engine shouldn't need any cutting up.

my
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... Steve
 

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No AussieSteve, there isn't any cutting required to install a motor in most cases, but to get a true board track look you need to replace the downtube with a curved one. That will allow the motor to sit much lower. By the way, hows the weather in Nowra, NSW, Australia? Great to converse with someone so far away. Have you ever seen a wombat smile before?
wombat.jpg
 
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