Simplex Servi

[KC Cheef]

I just picked this up yesterday along with another complete (minus engine) twin to it.
I've been looking at taking a shot at restoring an old bike, and this looks like a good beginners project.
Any of you all familiar with them?
Interesting fella I bought them from.
He has a garage full of toys he's had over the years--says he never throws anything away.
I'll put some pics up of a sideshow booth he's had for about 30 years--says it was painted by a motorcycle artist in the '60's and made the rounds to AMA events around the MidWest.
It's one of those set behind the cartoon scens and have your pic taken --looks like you're riding a cartoon version of an Old Chief--pretty cool deal.

[Chris Haynes]

Originally Posted by KC Cheef

I've been looking at taking a shot at restoring an old bike, and this looks like a good beginners project.

If that is original paint with the transfers on the tank do not restore it. Just make it work.
http://www.servi-cycle.com/

[KC Cheef]

Nope--the paint looks pretty decent in this pic.
Unfortunately when you get a look in person--it's neon pink.

I'll get a pic up of the other frame--paint isn't real good--but the decals are still on there.

[KC Cheef]

I was told a '52.
I'm also told this one is a '52 but I see some differences that tell me they have to be different years.

[Buzz_Kanter]

Originally Posted by KC Cheef

I was told a '52.
I'm also told this one is a '52 but I see some differences that tell me they have to be different years.

Don't know anything about these bikes but do know that this one looks good enough to simply clean and get a powertrain in it and running. Looks great. Congrats and good luck with it.

[Chris Haynes]

Originally Posted by KC Cheef

I was told a '52.
I'm also told this one is a '52 but I see some differences that tell me they have to be different years.

Original paint!!! What a beauty.

[Bigincher]

I agree, looks like a good cleaning and some fresh duct tape on the seat is about this needs--- oh yeah, and a power train. Maybe some vintage air for the tires.
Now... a general question--- for a 'first-time restoration', wouldn't this particular model be a lot tougher to deal with than.... say, a mid-50's Panhead? Seems like availabilty of parts would be a major issue. Or is there a whole underworld society of Simplex owners that everybody but me knows about?

[KC Cheef]

Uhh--I'm trying to decide if you guys are encouraging me--or telling me to give it up.
Actually--there is kind of a following to these bikes-and a few go to guys to find parts.

[Bigincher]

Total encouragement and enthousiasm, my friend! That's one of the common bonds that brings us all together here. Just please don't do a dang thing to it until you educate yourself. Well, you could wash it.....
But use mild detergent!

[Chris Haynes]

Originally Posted by Bigincher

Or is there a whole underworld society of Simplex owners that everybody but me knows about?

Yup.
But I must admit you know more now that you did this time last year.
There may be hope for you yet, although it is doubtful.