Saddle Bag Blues...

Today I have started to do some small inspections, and to be able to see the sprocket and the rear break, I need to take off the saddle bags. Now I run into the first problem, because I don't have the keys to open them.

At least I have found a solution, by pressing the lids a bit and pushing them to the left side, they simply slide beneath the locks and come off.

As the bags need to be re-painted, I have to remove all the hardware. I saw they have used a fastener, which only can be removed by drilling them out. This means I have to find way to re-fit all the hardware in a proper way once the bags are re-painted. And yes ordering new locks might be a good idea as well, as I don't believe the previous owner will find back the keys.

The last 2 pictures show what is behind the saddle bags, and it's not bad at all. Looks a bit dusty, but in good shape. Also the brake side looks good and it will be fairly easy to clean.

Next coming weeks I will use to clean the bike and in this way I will get a better idea, what really needs to be done. What can be re-painted and polished and what needs to be replaced and re-chromed. Ebay here I come...