This bike is a 1974 Raleigh International. It was my father’s bike for many years when he commuted to work. It has been handed down to me and I am looking for someone who would be interested in a classic. At the time it was considered a high end professional/racing bike. I have seen these in remarkably pristine condition selling on ebay for three or four times what I am asking. I cannot imagine how you could own one and not want to ride the hell out of it, but I suppose if you have kept yours in a garage since 1974 you can ask more for it than I am.  As you can see from the photos this one has a good patina to it. Most of it is original. You can probably guess what has been replaced (rims, tires, brake pads, brake and shift cables, chain, seat, handlebar tape ) Originally it had toe clips… I may have them around somewhere, but the original leather straps did not make it. I do not have the original Brooks seat. At the time I thought it was kind of uncomfortable, but I hear it is an acquired taste. If I had that to do over, maybe I would have tried it longer. It is still light as a feather and in rideable condition, however a lot could be done to make it more smooth and polished.

My first inclination is to hang on to the bike. It is a classic and has a lot of great memories. I might ride it now and again if I hung onto it. On the other hand I would probably just stuff it away in some corner of the basement where it would be neglected and gather dust. I would rather someone else ride it. I have two other bikes and am considering building a third.

If you would like to time travel to 1974 in style this is the bike for you. Contact me at haynes@emeraldstudio.com Shoot me an offer or maybe you have something interesting to trade.  The bike is now sold!