I am in the process of returning my Rapide to more original Series B guise but am facing big problems. Number ONE is the radius of the rear guards. While the lateral curve (?) is great and matches the hinge almost mm perfect, the longitudinal curve is a disaster and has taken 2 of us nearly all day to do a preliminary fit.
The whole issue is set in stone (metal!!) by the relationship between the lifting handle and the chainguard. I was very keen to get this right and bought a very tired but unmolested "B" chainguard to set the parameters. After hours spent trying to get the guards to fit without any stresses I see the chances of fitting the bolts into the "cotton-reels" of the seat stay are minimal due to lack of clearance with the chain guard. I may have to bite the bullet and hit the beautifully painted item with a round headed mallet !!
Any input, suggestions, shortcuts, advice....... very, very, welcome. The hinge and flap were treated to a dremel, angle grinder and file......
Time for a beer!!
The whole issue is set in stone (metal!!) by the relationship between the lifting handle and the chainguard. I was very keen to get this right and bought a very tired but unmolested "B" chainguard to set the parameters. After hours spent trying to get the guards to fit without any stresses I see the chances of fitting the bolts into the "cotton-reels" of the seat stay are minimal due to lack of clearance with the chain guard. I may have to bite the bullet and hit the beautifully painted item with a round headed mallet !!
Any input, suggestions, shortcuts, advice....... very, very, welcome. The hinge and flap were treated to a dremel, angle grinder and file......
Time for a beer!!