Cyclic Universe Carlton comes home

[Flashspix]

As my restoration project on the 1969 Carlton progresses, thought I would create a blog to provide some background info and some before and now images.

Nailing down which Carlton model this bike is, many have tried including Moi, my best guess now is a Corsa, but I am still unsure, if anyone can shed light on this mystery I'd be very appreciative, hope the blog makes for a good read.

https://flashspix.wordpress.com/2015/09 ... -universe/

Paul
(Flashspix)

 

[keithglos]

Hi Paul
I had a look at your pics, oddly it has raleigh bottom bracket cups (must be 26 TPI), but standard non Raleigh head set. This suggests the forks are not original.

Keith

 

[Flashspix]

Huge thanks retro guru!!!!, deffo the forks are aftermarket replacements, there are a lot of odd things about this bike, the frame is chrome treated on the headset and part of the top and down bar.

I think it's oddities make me love it more, even got the Carlton specialists confused.

Do you think it could be a Raleigh?

 

[ibbz]

look here:

http://veterancycleclublibrary.org.uk/l ... 1&items=80

This lists as PDF almost every Carlton Catalogue and price list since the 30ies.
I can't find this model in the 1968/69 and 69 catalogues.
The carlton frame decals look familiar - similar to the 1977 catalogue.
Catalogues from 1975,76 and 78 are missing - and this is the only year (according to the catalogues) where this decal is evident - but the yellow colour isn't present, it may be one of the missing years (the decals at least)

Just had a look at your link - silly me - ignore the above

It may be on one of the catalogues though so have a browse and I reckon the decal style will be a dead giveaway - possiboly a 68/69 Corsair as it has same decal, and is described 'flamboyant red with black head and black seat panel with chrome rings'