1969 Raleigh Sports
My 1969 Raleigh Sports
I was out for a spin on my recently acquired 1969 Raleigh Sports ($35.00 on EBay), when a passing 13 or 14 year old on a BMX bike yelled, "nice cruiser"! While the description may have been ever-so slightly errant, the teenager's excitement (and numerous questions: "how'd ya do the gears?, where'd ya get it?, how old is it?, you ever see the movie((?)) with that beach cruiser?... I want a bike like the one in that movie!," etc., etc.) lead me to the conclusion that the classics will never die.
My first attempt at a restoration, the 1969 Raleigh Sports 3 speed spoiled my ideas for a summer long project. Although it arrived in pieces, I had it fully cleaned and assembled the following evening... the ebay pictures had made it look a wreck, but it now gleamed (although slightly faded by time and the elements). After searching for information on tuning the Sturmey Archer AW hub, I found Sheldon Brown's numerous articles and links proved invaluable. The second day after its acquisition the bike was shifting flawlessly (thanks Sheldon)! Everything was original - right down to the Dunlops still holding air. The only additions needed were a new seat... the original was present but dried and curled, handle bar grips and pedals. After some grease, rust removal, and lubrication the bike was revealing itself as it must have been new!
For a seat, I traveled about an hour and a half away to Harris Cyclery hoping to catch Sheldon Brown and pick up a few hints. Sheldon wasn't around, but I purchased a new Brooks B73 saddle. It was not original equipment, but is a wonderful addition to the bike. They also rooted around out back to find me the closest replicas to the original pedals they could find (the only non-English pieces on the bike) an unboxed pair of German made, rubber blocks.
The maiden voyage along the Cape Cod Canal followed shortly after a passing, summer afternoon shower... I never realized how great fenders can be! I had numerous people stop me after the first teenager. All had questions I now felt expert at answering (thanks again Sheldon). Amazing that a bike a year younger than I can be such a novelty.
These pictures don't do the bike justice. They will soon be replaced by better as soon as I get the film developed. I am now an official Raleigh addict. Your comments and stories are welcome. Please drop me a line!
Picture on EBay, Before Purchase:
After purchase, and a little elbow grease...
(click on images for full-size view)
My Favorite Raleigh Links
Sheldon Brown's Raleigh
3 Speeds
