The Bianchi Project - dismantling phase

So...on the surface it seems easy enough to do the single speed conversion. I'm hoping for a nice clean look when I finished. No chain tensioner, mutiple cogs, chainrings, and cables. I want to save what parts I can to keep it retro. Yeah, it's 18 years old, so that makes it retro enough. Some restoration needs to be done too. Looks like I have all the tools I need. I started by removing what I don't need. First, off with the shifters and cables. I had mix feelings, taking these out. Downtube shifters...that's retro.

Then, against Mike "The Bike" advice, I decided to remove the 53T chainring and keep the 42T. I figured, I'm not like Mike. It'll be easier for me to commute around town. The front derailluer and the chain...gone. Looks like the chain is in a good shape, I just need to shorten it. The cranks and strap pedals stay.

Take off the rear derailleurs...piece of cake.

This old Sella Italia needs to be replace...

...see why? Too bad. The original seat would've been a nice touch. And the handle bar needs a new tape. So far, so good. Easy, huh?