telemark949

I picked up what looks like a 1985 Batavus Professional frame and fork. Unfortunately (probably why it was only 25$), there are some pretty nasty rust spots. Under the bottom bracket is pretty bad, as well as near the cable guides. There are also a few veins of rust scattered throughout the frame. I'd really like to keep the paint job original, but I'm afraid it will be near impossible to remove all the rust without doing a thorough paint strip and sand.

Any recommendations? I'm planning an Oxalic acid bath, but that won't stop what's growing under the paint. Should I chalk this project up to a waste of time/money? De-rust and repaint, and regard it as a solid Columbus no-name frame? Or work around the decals as best as I can, and end up with a patchy but rust free frame?

I've posted a few pictures of the suspect areas. Extra points if someone can identify the model of columbus tubing based on the sticker remnants! I think these came with one of the SL/SLX/SPX/SP's, although not entirely sure.

Thanks for your help and suggestions!

mkeller234

If it was mine, I would probably strip it and repaint it if the frame isn't too far gone.

jgedwa

That is looks pretty rusty. But, on the other hand, it always surprises me how far gone steel can look before it really is gone. Don't give up on it just because it looks ugly now. But, do go over it really, really carefully.

And it does look like a complete repaint is in order. I do not know this model bike, but perhaps a powdercoating is in order here. They will blast all the rust off, and that might be needed here to stop what you have.

jim

Elev12k

I would think it is a Professional using SL or SP tubing. Normally 59 upward used the later. In all original condition it is a very lush bike I would sure like to own. Your frame awaits work, but unfortunately I do not know really what I should advise you. I tend to repaint, with a powder coating as cheap alternative. I do know someone on here had a repaint performed on an identical Professional in exact same colour. It looked spot on, even with the original graphics sprayed on.

Bianchigirll 

HI, if I took a chance on something like that I might consider a professional repaint. I never saw alot Batavus bikes around so I would want mine looking great. I would think a few pics to good paint shop and they might be able to tell you yes or no from their experience.

also you this is Dutch right? there are lost of Dutch bike fans here a few better pics or a link to you a flicker site might help them identify the frame for you.

lotek 

I'd drop that BB in an oxalic acid bath to see just how far gone it is. It could just be surface rust and the frame
is actually in good shape.

unworthy1

it's definitely worth some effort, especially with only a $25 investment for a top model Columbus frame. If you don't want to invest in the new paint or PC right now, do try the OA soak and assess what you have after that. You might be able to touch up the really bad spots with brushed-on paint and ride it until you're ready to spend for a complete re-spray, with or without graphics.

phillyrider

My recommendation would be to attempt to remove the surface rust - if not oxalic acid, copper choreboy works ok without scratching (like steel wool). Cover with clear nail polish, and ride it.

Paint jobs are pricey - so it's a good idea to make sure that the frame fits, you like the ride, and it's worth the investment.