Here is my new toy....1954 Powerpak Autocycle on a Rudge 3 speed bike! But do I restore or preserve its patina and ride as is? Needs a new condenser to start but the engine has not been pulled about, everything looks okay and has the "Syncromatic" control - roll the throttle one way to go and the other to use a "clutch" mechanism.
I say preserve, way too many things are restored to better than new. A coating of Ankor Wax & it'll look great.
Love it! Get it in working order and use it. They tended to be a little hard on rear tyres with a slight habit of slipping in the wet and splatter the rider a bit too...however it could be fun. Those things used to be in competition with the BSA autowheel...30cc of two stroke stink. Could do 25mph on the level with a tail wind.
I'm erring towards preserve too...the frame still has some of the Rudge stickers on it, it would be a shame to lose them. Its all there, inc the brakes and totally worn out pads! Beautiful Brookes saddle...and no MoT needed. Drove 160 miles to pick up in Llandudno from a garage with Aston martins, Costello MGBGT, 60's TVR and Healey 100/6 all sat there along with 3 of these Autocycles - great guy, could have talked for hours, he was refurbing the Aston for a family wedding, it having sat for years in the corner. One of those places you are privileged to have visited.
