I found this early 70's Raleigh mixte on CL several weeks back for $40 and had to have it, even though I wasn't entirely sure what I'd do with it. She cleaned up very nicely but she's been sitting in the garage, barely ridden, while I decide exactly what to do with her. I am very open to ideas so please share any you might have!
This is what she looked like the day we brought her home (wheels were being cleaned.)
We switched out the saddle to an old sprung Raleigh saddle from a late 60's three-speed. The three-speed is in the infirmary with a discombobulated hub for the time being.
She got some new cork grips and a bell, of course.
I have an old Samsonite shoulder bag that I picked up for $5 at the thrift store, like the one here (mine's in better shape). I think it will make a cool, retro-looking pannier for this bike.
She got a simple Wald rack and I've got some steel fenders, robbed off an old Schwinn, that I'll likely put on this weekend. I'm also contemplating putting a flatter, porteur-style handlebar on her. I'm thinking she'll make a nice rainy day bike. No leather to worry about, good solid ride, and, well, a purpose.
Very nice! Do you know anything about Evans bikes? Alex found a pink one apparently from the 50's at an estate sale today, but it was $95 and needs some work. I might go back tomorrow to see if it's still there. I know nothing about bikes, though.
ReplyDeleteThere's some discussion about FW Evans frames at bikeforums.net in the classic and vintage forums.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?617095-E.W.Evans-frame.&highlight=evans
Also, there's some info here...
http://www.bikebrothers.co.uk/evans.htm
Sounds like they are a big chain around London with more humble beginnings. An interesting find for sure!!