Sports bike companion hvz. Bicycles
Bicycles are constantly changing and improving - that's a fact. But among their fans there are also those who prefer timeless classics. One of these rarities will now be discussed.
Peculiarities
Bicycles "Sputnik" attract the attention of not only collectors and connoisseurs of antiquity. They really drive and even cover significant distances. It is not difficult to find forums and associations of fans of such bikes. People are interested in how to fix them, how to improve even. After all, the characteristics of the Sputnik series are quite good.
KhVZ (Kharkov Bicycle Plant) began its activity in a very rich and extraordinary historical period - in the mid-1920s.
The enterprise in a short time has reached a leading position in the country. The production of a variety of bicycles was launched:
- children's with three wheels;
- track;
- intended for teenagers;
- road models;
- products for professional athletes.
Speaking about the Sputnik series itself, it must be said that it is intended for a wide non-professional audience.
These are touring bikes, characterized by a relatively soft saddle and frame strength.
Of course, the engineers took care of the reliability of the mechanical components of the product.
Today, the Kharkov Bicycle Plant continues to operate, but under the brand name "VODAN".
Specific modifications
This series of bicycles was produced in the 1960-80s. All of them were intended for adults. With the onset new era"Satellites" was gradually withdrawn from production.
The very first among them was the model "B-34". It was collected from 1961 to 1964. The salient features were:
- sports steering wheel;
- hand brakes;
- 3 speeds;
- included in the standard package of a bag with tools for repair and pump.
In 1964-87, the B-37 model was produced. On it, according to the operating experience of the previous version, the brake system and the seat were modernized. Another important new feature was the addition of a ratchet to the rear hub. Structurally, the installation of a sports steering wheel and contact pedals was allowed; these options helped to work hard. The package included:
- the same pump and bag;
- electrical equipment;
- call;
- spare parts for ratchet.
Since 1968, the production of the B-39 modification began and continued until 1973., which differed little from the previous version. Only experts could figure out what the difference is between them.
Nevertheless, on the "B-39" they put rims made of duralumin or steel. The pedals worked more efficiently. The gear selector has been upgraded. To decorate the frame, front fork and wheel guards, multi-colored enamels and elegant stickers were used. Metal parts were covered with a layer of chromium.
The technical parameters are as follows:
- frame height 0.56 m;
- wheelbase 1.09 m;
- wheels with a diameter of 27 inches;
- tires 1.25 inches wide;
- net weight 14.5 kg.
But in 1973, a fundamentally new model "B-301" appeared. According to the manufacturer's official specification, it was intended for:
- business trips;
- tourism;
- walks.
The bike could go already 4 different speeds. It was equipped with a soft seat, and toe clips were added to the pedals. There are standard and extended configurations. In the basic version, consumers got the same bag and pump, stern reflector, bell, rear-mounted luggage box. For an additional fee, the Kharkov Bicycle Plant was ready to provide a front trunk, a rear-view mirror, a dynamo and a headlight.
The bicycle "B-301" used a closed frame. The wheelbase is 1.07 m. The height of the bike can be 0.54, 0.56 or 0.58 m. Both brakes are manual, caliper type with a clamp on the rim. The weight of the bike is 14.2 kg.
But the B-301 stopped rolling off the assembly line as early as 1975.
Over the next two years, version 153-414 was produced. It is deservedly considered a classic bike for amateur tourists. The seat is quite hard, and the pedals are of the "treadmill" type. The rear hub could be rated for 3 or 4 stars.
Like the "301st", there are 2 configurations. Basic set delivery differs only in the addition of a container for lubricating oil. From 1978 to 1982, version 153-424 was produced. It was originally intended for lovers cycling, but after installing the rear trunk, it was also suitable for tourist trips. The frame was made from thinner pipes, a plastic seat was used, which made it possible to lighten the design; an innovation of steel and 8 speeds.
How are things today
So, "Sputniks" stopped leaving the factory conveyors even before the onset of perestroika. But they still have quite a few fans. Familiarity with thematic forums shows that the refinement and improvement of "Sputnik" causes heated long discussions. Everyone agrees that These bikes have strong frames. Even after 40-50 years, they retain their reliability and work stably.
There are a number of upgrade options:
- installation of improved rudders;
- replacing seats with more ergonomic ones;
- use of the latest generation of attachments.
But some fans are trying, on the contrary, to reproduce the previous samples in their entirety as much as possible. They not only comply with the initially specified wheel diameter, but also try to find authentic spare parts.
There is also a completely opposite approach, when they are not limited to replacing the rear wheel, but try to remake the bike as deeply as possible. Total transformation itself reveals creative inclinations.
It is worth noting that "Satellites" are also used in photo shoots, and they attract the attention of collectors.
Before starting a major upgrade, you need to figure out if the factory mount is suitable for updated forks, brakes and other parts. Please note that models with ratchet and steel frames are not suitable for the installation of "cassettes". Modernization is needed when you plan to drive over rough, difficult terrain or develop high speed. For skiing within the city, you can limit yourself surface tuning. It is quite possible to get by with a factory steering wheel without changing it, but putting it in order (however, this depends on personal taste).
An overview of the Sputnik B-39 bike can be seen below.
Task 1 of 15
1 .
Are the Rules violated in the situations depicted?
Right
f) tow bicycles;
Wrong
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.6. The cyclist is prohibited from:
d) hold on to another vehicle while driving;
f) tow bicycles;
Task 2 of 15
2 .
Which cyclist does not break the rules?
Right
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.6. The cyclist is prohibited from:
Wrong
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.6. The cyclist is prohibited from:
b) move on motorways and roads for cars, as well as on the carriageway, if there is a nearby Bike Lane;
Task 3 of 15
3 .
Who must give way?
Right
6. Requirements for cyclists
Wrong
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.5. If the cycle path crosses the road outside the intersection, cyclists must give way to other vehicles moving on the road.
Task 4 of 15
4 .
What loads are allowed to be carried by a cyclist?
Right
6. Requirements for cyclists
22. Shipping
Wrong
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.4. The cyclist can only carry such loads that do not interfere with the control of the bike and do not create obstacles for other participants. traffic.
22. Shipping
22.3. Carriage of cargo is permitted provided that it:
b) does not violate the stability of the vehicle and does not complicate its management;
Task 5 of 15
5 .
Which cyclist violates the Rules when carrying passengers?
Right
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.6. The cyclist is prohibited from:
Wrong
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.6. The cyclist is prohibited from:
e) carry passengers on a bicycle (with the exception of children under 7 years of age who are transported on an additional seat equipped with securely fastened footrests);
Task 6 of 15
6 .
In what order will the vehicles pass through the intersection?
Right
16. Passage of intersections
Wrong
16. Passage of intersections
16.11. At the intersection of unequal roads, the driver of a vehicle moving along a secondary road must give way to vehicles approaching this intersection of carriageways along the main road, regardless of the direction of their further movement.
16.12. At the intersection of equivalent roads, the driver of a non-rail vehicle must give way to vehicles approaching from the right.
This rule should be guided by each other and tram drivers. At any unregulated intersection, a tram, regardless of the direction of its further movement, has an advantage over non-rail vehicles approaching it along an equivalent road.16.14. If the main road changes direction at the intersection, the drivers of vehicles moving along it must be guided by the rules for passing the intersections of equivalent roads.
This rule should be guided by each other and drivers moving on secondary roads.Task 7 of 15
7 .
Cycling on sidewalks and footpaths:
Right
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.6. The cyclist is prohibited from:
Wrong
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.6. The cyclist is prohibited from:
c) walk on sidewalks and footpaths(except for children under 7 years old on children's bicycles under adult supervision);
Task 8 of 15
8 .
Who has the right of way at the intersection with the bike lane?
Right
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.5. If the cycle path crosses the road outside the intersection, cyclists must give way to other vehicles moving on the road.
Wrong
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.5. If the cycle path crosses the road outside the intersection, cyclists must give way to other vehicles moving on the road.
Task 9 of 15
9 .
What distance should be between groups of cyclists moving in a column?
Right
6. Requirements for cyclists
Wrong
6. Requirements for cyclists
6.3. Cyclists, moving in groups, must ride one after another so as not to interfere with other road users. A column of cyclists moving along the carriageway should be divided into groups (up to 10 cyclists in a group) with a distance of 80-100 m between groups.
Task 10 of 15
10 .
Vehicles will pass the intersection in the following order
Right
16. Passage of intersections
16.11. At the intersection of unequal roads, the driver of a vehicle moving along a secondary road must give way to vehicles approaching this intersection of carriageways along the main road, regardless of the direction of their further movement.
Wrong
16. Passage of intersections
16.11. At the intersection of unequal roads, the driver of a vehicle moving along a secondary road must give way to vehicles approaching this intersection of carriageways along the main road, regardless of the direction of their further movement.
16.13. Before turning left and making a U-turn, the driver of a non-rail vehicle is obliged to give way to a tram in the opposite direction, as well as to vehicles moving on the same road in the opposite direction straight or to the right.
Task 11 of 15
11 .
The cyclist passes the intersection:
Right
16. Passage of intersections
Wrong
8. Traffic regulation
8.3. The signals of the traffic controller take precedence over traffic signals and traffic signs and are mandatory. Traffic lights other than flashing yellow take precedence over road signs priority. Drivers and pedestrians must comply with the additional requirements of the traffic controller, even if they contradict traffic signals, traffic signs and markings.
16. Passage of intersections
16.6. When turning left or turning around at the green signal of the main traffic light, the driver of a non-rail vehicle is obliged to give way to a tram in the same direction, as well as vehicles moving in the opposite direction straight or turning right. This rule should be guided by each other and tram drivers.
Task 12 of 15
12 .
Flashing red signals of this traffic light:
Right
8. Traffic regulation
Wrong
8. Traffic regulation
8.7.6. To regulate traffic at railway crossings, traffic lights with two red signals or one white-moon and two red signals are used, having the following meanings:
a) flashing red signals prohibit the movement of vehicles through the crossing;
b) a flashing white-moon signal indicates that the alarm system is working and does not prohibit the movement of vehicles.
At railway crossings, simultaneously with a prohibitory signal of a traffic light, an audible signal may be turned on, additionally informing road users about the prohibition of movement through the crossing.
Task 13 of 15
13 .
Which vehicle driver will pass the intersection second?
Right
16. Passage of intersections
16.11. At the intersection of unequal roads, the driver of a vehicle moving along a secondary road must give way to vehicles approaching this intersection of carriageways along the main road, regardless of the direction of their further movement.
16.14. If the main road changes direction at the intersection, the drivers of vehicles moving along it must be guided by the rules for passing the intersections of equivalent roads.
This rule should be guided by each other and drivers moving on secondary roads.
Wrong
16. Passage of intersections
16.11. At the intersection of unequal roads, the driver of a vehicle moving along a secondary road must give way to vehicles approaching this intersection of carriageways along the main road, regardless of the direction of their further movement.
16.14. If the main road changes direction at the intersection, the drivers of vehicles moving along it must be guided by the rules for passing the intersections of equivalent roads.
This rule should be guided by each other and drivers moving on secondary roads.
16 Crossings
Wrong
8. Traffic regulation
8.7.3. Traffic lights have the following meanings:
A signal in the form of an arrow, allowing a left turn, also allows a U-turn, if it is not prohibited by traffic signs.
The signal in the form of a green arrow (arrows) in the additional (additional) section (sections), turned on together with a green traffic light, informs the driver that he has an advantage in the direction (directions) indicated by the arrow (arrows) over vehicles moving from other directions;
f) a red signal, including a flashing one, or two red flashing signals prohibit movement.
A signal in the form of a green arrow (arrows) in the additional (additional) section (s) together with a yellow or red traffic light signal informs the driver that movement is allowed in the indicated direction, provided that vehicles moving from other directions are allowed to pass unhindered.
The green arrow on the plate, installed at the level of the red signal of a traffic light with a vertical arrangement of signals, allows movement in the indicated direction when the red traffic light is on from the rightmost lane (or the leftmost lane on one-way roads), subject to the provision of an advantage in traffic to its other participants moving from other directions to a traffic light signal allowing movement;
16 Crossings
16.9. While driving in the direction of the arrow switched on in the additional section at the same time as the yellow or red traffic light, the driver must give way to vehicles moving from other directions.
While driving in the direction of the green arrow on the table set at the level of the red traffic light with a vertical arrangement of signals, the driver must take the extreme right (left) lane and give way to vehicles and pedestrians moving from other directions.
Just as paintings become especially valuable after the artist's death, so the sports bikes of the Kharkov Bicycle Plant - Tourist, Satellite, Start Highway became dear to their owners after the cessation of production. It turned out that these machines have nothing to replace. We are approached by the first owners of Startons, their children and grandchildren, and enthusiasts who bought a used KhVZ bike. Replacing worn, lost, obsolete parts, we inhale new life into this miracle of Soviet technology.
The most demanded components were also in short supply in Soviet times. High seatpost 25 mm, stem 100, clincher wheels, aluminum square system, bottom bracket on industrial bearings - these words still warm the soul of every crocodile breeder.
Delivery to Moscow carried out by the transport company SDEK: spare parts for KhVZ bicycles that you buy in the online store will be received at the pick-up point in Moscow the very next day.
For residents of the republic Crimea we opened a point of issue of orders in the city Sevastopol. This allowed to significantly reduce the cost and delivery time of spare parts for KhVZ bicycles purchased on the site.
With all the level of development of modern technology and its material availability, there are many lovers, for example, of old film cameras and modern optics - a similar phenomenon exists among cyclists. Moreover, these people are not necessarily collectors of bicycle rarities - many really ride their Soviet bikes, such as, say, the Sputnik bicycle, sometimes overcoming quite significant distances, enthusiastically discussing them with like-minded people on forums, repairing and upgrading.
Kharkov Bicycle Plant then and now
Having begun its work in the mid-20s of the twentieth century, the Kharkov Bicycle Plant quickly became a leader in the USSR in the production of this type of equipment. The enterprise mastered the production various types bicycles - from children's tricycles and teenage options to track and road bikes aimed at professional athletes.
The most famous series of HVZ bicycles:
- "Ukraine", perhaps the most famous Soviet bicycle and, moreover, the oldest nomenclature line of the plant: these bikes began to be produced there literally from the moment the enterprise was launched; universally passable both male and female versions of the frame.
- "Satellite"- a bicycle for a wide range of amateurs, a real "companion" of a tourist with a soft seat, a strong frame and reliable mechanics;
- "Tourist"- another universal bike, but, unlike the "Ukraine", with a hand brake;
- "Start Highway"- sports and highway line; distinctive characteristics - a lightweight frame and as many as seven gears.
The heyday of the enterprise fell on the 60s - 80s; here, of course, the preparation for the 1980 Olympics played a significant role, for which the plant specially developed and produced two models of bicycles in a "small edition": the trekking "Record" and the road "Champion Highway", due to their rarity, they are now very highly valued by collectors .
Currently, KhVZ continues to produce inexpensive bicycles under the brand name "VODAN" - the current catalog of the enterprise includes over 50 models, from mountain bikes to children's.
Series "Sputnik" and its features
A series of bicycles "Sputnik", which consisted of six models of sports and tourism purposes, aimed at adults, was produced at the Kharkov Bicycle Plant (KhVZ) in the 60s - 80s of the last century. Despite the fact that the plant relatively safely survived the collapse of the state and operates to this day, Sputnik did not step into capitalism, and remained entirely and completely an attribute of the USSR.
Here are the models of bicycles of this series, which KhVZ produced on a large scale due to their popularity with target audience– a wide range of tourists and just lovers healthy lifestyle life, including active cycling.
B-34 "Sputnik"- a light road bicycle for sports and tourism, produced in 1961-64. Sports steering wheel, hand brakes, three gears, standard equipment - a frame bag with tools and a bicycle pump.
B-37 "Sputnik"- produced from 1964 to 1968, unlike its predecessor, had an improved braking system and an updated saddle, as well as a ratchet on the rear hub. It was possible to put a sports steering wheel on it and contact pedals in order to use in the mode of enhanced training. The manufacturer attached to it, in addition to the pump and bag, also a bell, electrical equipment and spare parts for the ratchet.
B-39 "Sputnik" (1968-1973)- An updated version of the B-37, generally characterized in the same way.
B-301 "Sputnik"- produced in 1973-75, the appointment is indicated as "sports-touring bike for business, tourist and pleasure trips." Four gears, padded saddle, pedals with toe clips, standard and advanced equipment. In the first case, a mandatory bag and pump, as well as reflectors for the rear fender, bell and rear trunk; in addition, it was possible to order and supply the front, as well as a rear-view mirror, an electric generator and a headlight.
KhVZ 153-414 "Sputnik"(1976-1977) - Another classic recreational and touring model with a hard saddle, stomp pedals and a variable rear hub (3 or 4 stars). The complete set is provided by the factory and expanded, and in general and in general differs from its predecessor only in the presence of an oiler.
HVZ 153-424 "Sputnik"- a 1978-82 model for cycling, and if you install a rear rack, then for tourist trips. This bike differed from its predecessors in a thin-walled frame and, accordingly, less weight, which was also facilitated by a lightweight plastic saddle. Of the design innovations, it can be noted that the number of gears has increased to eight.
"Satellites" and modernity
Bicycles "Sputnik" have long been discontinued, but thanks to the post-Soviet man's craving for nostalgia and his desire to improve and bring to mind what fell into his hands, many of these "iron horses" in our time have received a completely full second life.
Modernization Soviet bicycles- a very common hobby, judging by the abundance and length of discussions on specialized forums. Their users especially praise the quality of the "satellite" frames, which, after so many years, still remain strong and reliable and even do not always require cosmetic repairs. Experimenters transfer modern handlebars and saddles to these frames, try to equip old bikes with modern "Schiman" attachments and enthusiastically share stories about the results of these attempts with each other.
The restoration of such rarities is another original approach to the legacy of the Soviet machine building industry: you can’t just take and put everything ready on the frame of an old bicycle - no, you need to find the most modern sources, and preferably completely authentic spare parts, which is a sport in itself.
Standing apart is such a phenomenon as a total alteration of these bikes. Some enthusiasts even try - with varying success - to turn regular bike"Sputnik" into the engine room, meticulously selecting and combining the necessary details for these purposes. Collecting their Frankensteins, they most likely enjoy not so much the result, which does not always go, but the process, which can be called truly creative.
Refurbished and converted bicycles are used not only as props for photo shoots of pretty girls against the backdrop of rural and urban landscapes, although this too. They continue to ride, developing decent speeds and winding up a considerable mileage. Despite the fact that today the richest choice of bikes is available for the Russian cyclist, even from Europe and America, even from Australia, many still choose the Soviet sports "non-road bike" for themselves.
And, of course, Sputnik bikes, although they are not particularly rare, are always present in the collection of every self-respecting retrobike collector as a bright sign of a certain era in the history of domestic cycling.
I've been drawn to aesthetics for a long time. sports bikes produced 30-50 years ago. They look thin, clean and neat. For this reason, I was very happy when I found out that my mother-in-law had a “Sputnik” that no one needed in the basement. Here it is, my chance to get what I want for free! Almost.
Exhumation 💀
So, Lisa (wife) and I went down to the city cellar, dug specifically for storing pickles and old bicycles.
On the top shelf (how could it be otherwise?) we found not one, but one and a half Sputniks! The second one was missing some important details. For example, the rear wheel.
Having lowered the bike down, I realized that it had begun to rain outside, and that the initial work would have to be carried out right there, in the basement. What kind of work? I removed the fenders and the trunk: as already mentioned, the bike is interesting to me only because it has a beautiful steel frame and a narrow ram handlebar. In order to drive, not ride, I have a modern and reliable Trek. Thirty-year-old KhVZ trash is not exactly what I would like to drive on business, and not at all something that can be exploited almost without thinking.
So, I removed the fenders and trunk, gradually realizing the amount of rust and work ahead. It was very damp in the basement, and this could not but affect the condition of the bike. It quickly became clear that the wheels were in a deplorable state: not only rubber, but also the spokes had become unusable over the years. The rims are also bent, but this in itself is not a problem. In the falling apart handbag there were “family” keys and a bicycle first-aid kit. The saddle initially evoked a feeling akin to hope. But, probably, in fact, I just rumbled in my stomach - I ruthlessly put aside a couple of days later.
The next task was to deliver the bike to Moscow from Kolomna. Fortunately, rear wheel more or less spinning, so that the bike could be rolled, putting it on the butt. This is how it looked:
Sunlight mercilessly revealed more and more signs of old age, multiplied by careless storage:
revival
For the next two weeks, I was overwhelmed by the work on my future new old bike (that's right). The steering wheel was wrapped with mysteriously crumbling asbestos-containing electrical tape:
Rusty little things were soaked in vinegar. With a frame, such a trick will not work - it's too big. Therefore, it was cleared in two stages. At the first, she was smeared with porridge of baking soda and water and left for an hour or two. After wiping dry, the frame was diligently treated with foil. Aluminum does not scratch steel or even paint, but rust is willing. This is what we need!
After cleaning, all exposed paint spots were smeared with clear nail polish to prevent re-corrosion, or at least delay it. I also wiped off all other rusty parts with foil, simultaneously washing some of them from age-old grease. Gradually the bike began to look like something normal. Many black details turned out to be gray 🙂
A lot of useful information gleaned from the community KhVZ Club Ekaterinburg” and on the forums. I dismantled almost all the nodes and reassembled them, mentally lubricating them. Exception - steering column(could not open) and rear hub(more precisely, her least interesting inner part). Fortunately, these connections worked well. But the capricious ratchet with its seventy balls was reassembled, although it caused me some ... irritation.
An important step was the assembly of wheels on new spokes. This complex case went surprisingly easily. The main thing is to be careful and not try to do everything in one sitting. Sheldon Brown has a good assembly instruction, there is a translation into Russian.
Naturally, some parts had to be replaced with new ones: rubber, cables and shirts, a saddle and a rare 25.0 mm seatpost, various little things and tools. As a result, about six thousand rubles were spent. Not so free! After pulling the cables, adjusting the brakes and derailleur, and some more fiddling, I suddenly got something beautiful:
Visually, this is practically the bike of my dreams. There were some problems securing the pedals with wedges and getting the tire to sit in place. And I have not yet got used to the speed switch located on the frame. It does not have “divisions”, the transmission must be groped by ear and by sensation. A very interesting experience that makes you appreciate modern technologies more.
In general, to be honest, the KhVZ of 1981, taken out of a damp basement, is rusty rubbish. Many nodes on it are morally obsolete a long time ago. But after all, people used to go somehow! And there were hikes, and races, and just skated. Makes you think about how things that improve our lives and seem optional at first, cunningly become necessary. Whether it's plumbing, internet, or indexed steering wheel shifters.
One way or another, the pleasure of acquiring a Sputnik is through the roof. The feeling when you come to work on such a handsome man to the sounds of psychedelic rock, while everyone around has boring mountain bikes, is indescribable. I love this bike!
After riding for some time in this form and finally hammering the wedges so that they no longer fly out, I was faced with reality.
- The rainy season was about to start, and I don’t want to take the subway to work anymore: it’s both harder and longer: 45 minutes door-to-door instead of 25 on a bike.
- My travel trek has wings for bad weather, but daily commuting means daily wash - brrr! - only to hide it at home for the night. I will never leave something valuable in the stairwell! Guf died from this garbage so the last bike was stolen from me.
The decision was obvious and inevitable, like the release of the next unfunny season of The Big Bang Theory: you just need to put wings on the HVZ, a normal lock - and you don’t have to bring it home! Who would think of stealing a wheel from a rusty Sputnik? Complete illiquid for a thief. So I bought a U-lock, brought iron from Kolomna - et voilà!
I started to leave the bike on the street, which immediately provided +100500 to the convenience of its use. I know that the decision is controversial, but the difference in practicality unambiguously blocked all the risks. Akin to how the additional risk of falling off a bicycle is 20 times less (p. 24) than the health benefits of daily riding it.
Sometimes it is not easy to share the road with cars, especially when the dirt flies not only from below, but also side:
After this, you want to get drunk and never go out into the snow again. When the weather is really bad, that's what I do - no, I don't get drunk - I ride the tram and read a book. It's even longer than the subway, but without the fuss.
But when there is no precipitation, some things become much easier. And no stuffy metro! (Did I mention that I don't like taking the subway?)
Yes, it's a multicooker. No, not for me. She has the Master Chief feature (sic!).
And I recently rode it to a winter bike parade. Cold and cool. I still love this bike!
