Commuting - New Urban bike is on the way.

Well, not really new. I ordered an early 70's Raleigh 3-speed in very good condition and got an e-mail yesterday confirming that it has shipped; should be here (Calif) by Weds or Thurs of next week. I'm so "jazzed" that you'd think I was just given a bike from Lance's personal collection. But, hey, I wanted one when I was a kid and now I've found one that I intend to use around the neighborhood- going to the bank, barber, post office, store and impromtu rides etc. Still have my road bike for those longer club rides and recreational rides on the weekends. Just had to post since no one else in the family,friends or business associates really gives a darn. They don't understand that you can never have enough bikes nor truly comprehend the joys of bike riding. Thx for letting me rant. Thom.

that's cool...

the 70s nottingham-built raleighs with the s-a 3pds are just plain wonderful bikes for everyday utility use. when you get it, let's have a photo, if possible.

i'm had a soft-spot for them ever since i spent a summer riding a borrowed one when visiting cousins, working as little as possible, and trying to get into trouble.

Well, not really new. I ordered an early 70's Raleigh 3-speed in very good condition and got an e-mail yesterday confirming that it has shipped; should be here (Calif) by Weds or Thurs of next week. I'm so "jazzed" that you'd think I was just given a bike from Lance's personal collection. But, hey, I wanted one when I was a kid and now I've found one that I intend to use around the neighborhood- going to the bank, barber, post office, store and impromtu rides etc. Still have my road bike for those longer club rides and recreational rides on the weekends. Just had to post since no one else in the family,friends or business associates really gives a darn. They don't understand that you can never have enough bikes nor truly comprehend the joys of bike riding. Thx for letting me rant. Thom.

I have a Raleigh Sports 3 speed that I am very fond of. I am going to have to put tires on it this year, and I need to locate the right size tire. My Sports is Black and white, circa 1970. Good luck with your new ride! :)

... truly comprehend the joys of bike riding. Thx for letting me rant. Thom.

- - My first "adult" bicycle was a 1972 Raleigh 3-speed. It provided a very solid, competent ride and I commuted the streets of LA for six blissful years on that bike. Then I sold it to "upgrade" to a 10-speed. Hahaha Didn't know how good I had it.

Enjoy.

I remember that my uncle in Battle Creek had a Raleigh 3 speed in the mid-1960s. It was green and we called it an "English racer." I believe that he special ordered it from England. As an adult riding a bike, he was considered to be eccentric or even peculiar. And he taught driver's education in a high school!

It's here... it's here. Came via DHL yesterday; wasn't expecting it until Weds. I unpacked it and checked it out. In pretty good shape for an old, 32 years, bike. Has new tires/tubes and is functionally in great shape. I'll begin the general clean-up and assembly tonight; should finish by tomorrow night. Will post some pics in the near future. MMy wife was underwhelmed. She thought it would be all shiny and "new" looking but she'll change her view when I get it assembled and spruced-up. What fun.