🖼️
The project:
After spotting this abandoned bicycle on the side of the road, I was determined to save it from the landfill. I challenged myself to restore it using DIY skills, patience and a few new accessories to give it a completely new lease on life. Along the way I learnt that preparation is everything, especially making sure every part is properly masked before painting! Seeing the finished bike transformed from neglected scrap into something I'd be proud to ride was an incredibly rewarding moment and reminded me that many forgotten items deserve a second chance.
- Materials:
- WD-40 Rust remover
- WD-40 Degreaser
- Sandpaper (for orbital sander)
- Metal primer (Rustoleum)
- Spray paint (Dulux)
- Clear coat
- Masking tape
- WD-40
- Chain lubricant
- New bike grips
- New seat cover
- New bike bottle holder
- Cleaning cloths
- Tools:
- Ryobi orbital sander
- Masking tape
- Mask sheets (to protect the area from spray paint)
- Tyre repair kit
- Screwdrivers
- Wire brush
- Pliers
- Tyre levers
- Bicycle pump
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- Step 1:
I rescued the abandoned bicycle from the side of the road before it was destined for the tip and assessed what could be repaired or replaced.
- Step 2:
After assessing the tyres I realised there was a puncture, so it was time to repair it with the kit and pump up the other tyre too.
- Step 3:
I gave the bike a good clean with degreaser then scraped the stickers and decals off using WD-40.
- Step 4:
Years of dirt, grease and rust were removed using degreaser, a wire brush and sandpaper to create a solid foundation for the restoration.
- Step 5:
I then went ahead and sanded with my Ryobi orbital sander. Damaged areas were carefully prepared, masked and primed before painting. One of my biggest lessons was to always double-check that everything is properly taped up before spraying! Then it was time for the undercoat.
- Step 6:
I completed an undercoat layer then waited for it to dry before spraying with blue spray paint.
- Step 7:
Time for the blue final coat of spray paint!
- Step 8:
For final touches I added some new bike grips and a seat cover. The bicycle was reassembled and all brakes, wheels and fasteners were checked for safety.
- Step 9:
I was absolutely floored when I saw the finished result. What started as an abandoned bicycle left on the roadside had become a beautiful, functional bike ready for a whole new life. Giving it a second chance instead of sending it to landfill made the project even more rewarding.
Here's another before and after:
