Help identifying possibly Holdsworth

[DEbike]

I've recently got hold of this bike, which has a holdsworth headbadge but I don't recognise the lug patterns. There also seems to b a frame number just below the seat post (2568U) but can't find a reference to this anywhere. Looked under bottom bracket and only 531 stamped there. Is this actually a holdsworth - if not, what is it??! Help please! want to do a refurb over the summer.

 

[keithglos]

I have never seen a Holdsworth shop or Holdsworthy Company frame with a cheap pressed fork crown. Was this made by a later owner of the name?
Looks mass produced.

Keith

 

[DEbike]

Re:

Yes it's things like that which made me wonder whether it is actually a holdsworth or if someone has just stuck the head badge on it?

 

[Excel]

I'd agree the frame and components looks to be fairly basic and the serial number doesn't correlate to anything Holdsworth did (later Tandem Group offering maybe?) if the head badge is stuck on then probably a later addition but if it has rivets then maybe a cheapy bottom of line Hodsworth either way the headset looks to be ok, is it a Tange Levin.........or possibly Campag.?

Griff

 

[DEbike]

Re:

Riveted head badge, but yes, tange levin headset. Some nice bits on the bike and ok to ride so will give me a nice summer project anyway. I've never owned a steel frame bike before so was really keen to get advice as to what this bike is - thanks for the help!

 

[COUPES]

Re:

It's possible someone has used the head badge to make it look like a Holdsworth. Same hole centre's just a thought. Wonder if the U is of any significance? Universal or Univega but just a guess. Is the bottom bracket English? I've seen a 60s Bianchi with a serial number there but don't think it is anything under the paint? Forks could be added possibly.

Simon.

 

[DEbike]

Re:

Thanks, not sure about the bottom bracket if it's English or not, just has 531 stamped underneath. I might discover more when I strip it down and take the forks out. The rear drop outs seem to have something embossed on them that looks like something "co design"? All a hit of a mystery.....

 

[COUPES]

Re:

Chances are it's English thread with 531. Co Design I couldn't make it out but not heard of. Someone might know. Could be mass made. The tops of the seat stays look pinned and 40s-50s.

 

[Excel]

....similar to a 1960's Holdsworth Equipe other than the seatstay caps