Topic: Buying a repainted bike - how do I check the colour?

[neilbron]

Hi Guys, this forum is great - lots of really useful information and good will. I hope this isn't too dumb a question.

I'm interested in a Candy Gold K1 a dealer has advertised, and I really liked it because it had low miles, is quite original as far as I can tell  and had it's original paint. As I'm currently working 6 1/2 days a week I haven't seen the bike yet (although the photo looks good), but on my last phone call he said they found a blemish under a sticker and it is all being repainted.

Having read all of the great posts in the tank colour topic its obviously a difficult job tracking down the right paint and appllying it correctly. How can I tell if the colour is close to the original? I guess the answer is, I can't, unless I have another bike or original part to compare it to. Any other tricks? Where could I look to find original paint not covered by the new paint?

Would it be OK for me to phone the painter and ask about the source of the paint and the technique? Hate to spend good money and find the paint doesn't last.

What do you guys think?

Thanks,

Neil.

[GroovieGhoulie]

Are they repainting the tank and sidecovers?

I would say not to until you've seen it and made a judgement, that is of course, if you plan to buy it.

Those old "Candy" colors are quite nearly impossible to find, but with tons of diligent work, can be nearly matched.

[neilbron]

Thanks for the reply GG,

I just phoned, they have repainted it, but the guy seems to know these bikes. Hopefully it is a good job - hope to look at it tomorrow morning. I guess if I like the colour, it doesn't matter if its not the perfect match. Maybe I can find an unpainted area under the filler cap or somewhere to see how close they got

Would it be rude/prudent to phone the painter?

Thanks,

Neil.

[Bob Wessner]

Under the filler cap, or towards the back of the tank, low where it's covered by the front of the seat. That sometimes protects the area from sun exposure and fading. Good luck, hope you get it.