Any clues about this old Rudge of ours?

[lightnessandweight]

Hello all

I wonder if you could help me identify my father-in-law's bike? We think it's a Rudge. It used to be a fine thing and it went along beautifully, until he left it outside in the garden for years (!) Anyway, I've posted some numbers from the rear hub and the seat collar. Any clues?

Part of me would love to restore it.........but.......

Thanks

Dave

 

[The History Man]

I'm going with early 50s Rudge deluxe tourist Hard to track down as the pics in catalogues make lessof the seat stays........

The hub 1950 stamp makes it probably after then but could be a wheel swap.

1956 Rudge De-Luxe Tourist, 26" Frame with double top tube – The Online Bicycle Museum

1956 Rudge De-Luxe Tourist, 26" Frame with double top tube

onlinebicyclemuseum.co.uk

 

[lightnessandweight]

I do belive you've nailed it! I've just had a quick chat with the father-in-law and he said is brother bought it brand new in the 1950s. It was dark maroon with gold highlights and had stainless steel rims (the only shiny bit left) Those rims a are tough, but braking was awful, especially in the wet..

Thank you so much for the pics and the links. Its much appreciated! I shall pass on the info...

 

[hamster]

The wonderful thing about bikes like that is the enclosed chain and oil bath. Probably the chain inside is unworn and still good after 70 years.
It's well worth restoring in my view.

 

[lightnessandweight]

I think I last rode it about 8 or 9 years ago and (bar the awful brakes) everything was working perfectly. It's a shame there just so much rust. it's all on the surface though.....

 

[KermitGKona88]

Handlebars, tin foil and water, frame fine steel wool and oil, dry then wax... The brakes were always awful even when new...

 

[The History Man]

Nothing that’s not recoverable there. A little inspiration for you.


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