After being involved in BMX since 1980 and racing for the last 25 years I am starting my first restoration build.

I picked up a Mongoose frame and fork yesterday. Looking at vintagemongoose.com I determined it was a 1981 (from the dropouts and serial number).

Here is a photo:
Mongoose

I'll post periodically as I work on the build.
I don't want to build it up like a stock 1981 Mongoose, but rather how I would have liked to have it with period correct parts (as late as 1983 parts). I am thinking of going stealth on it, all black parts.

Carl

Have fun Carl, I've been collecting and trading since '89. Be carefull though, I started the same way. It all started with a friends old 70's goose and it then became an addiction. LOL!! After tons of bikes over the years, I have been able to ween myself off collecting and I'm down to just a few odds and ends that I actually use. It's a blast and you meet a lot of really cool people though it all. I still stumble on to things here and there that I can't pass up, but I don't get crazy like some of the guys do. have fun with it and I look forward to seeing your new build.

Shannon,
Time, money, and space have always been my stumbling blocks. I still don't have any of the three, but this frame/fork fell into my lap, so I am taking it as an omen. The BMX gods want me to build this bike. It might take 20 years of stumbling on to parts, but I'll build it eventually.

I've been thinking about it and here would be my dream parts list:
Oakley 1's black
Stu replica v bars chrome
Dia Compe two finger lever black
Dia Compe brakes MX1000 or earlier black
Pro Neck or Tuf Neck black
Bullseye hubs black
Z rims black
Big square knobby tires black wall
Ashtabula cranks black
Shimano DX pedals black
Power disc black
Sugino sprocket black
Tioga chain ring bolts black
Xcaliber or Suntour VX seat clamp black
fluted alu seat post black
Elina Lightning Bolt seat black

Carl

I look forward to seeing it!

Carl,

stealth black will be cool, but don't toss that "crazy" chain...the freestyle guys would probably give you a few bucks for it.



Steve

Wow, it's amazing to see what 3 hours with Mother's Mag Wheel polish will do to a 27 year old frame.
Lookin' good and I already traded for a couple of my wanted parts; a black Elina and a black Pro Neck.

I'll post an updated picture soon.

Carl