There is a lot of interest in Raleigh 20s lately. I'm starting to appreciate the lines of them. However, I really like the lines of the Hyda Bike. It looks pretty heavy, but I like the simple curves.

Are they any good? Which came first between the Hyda Bike and the Raleigh 20? What are your experiences with them?

I seem to remember that my grandpa brought one back from Europe in the 1970s, a turquoise three speed. It was well built, but very heavy. He had a cheap knock-off of it, a single speed one with coaster brake, and my brother and I always fought for that one. (9 year old kids can REALLY tell the difference in weight)

I'm going to keep my eye open for one at garage sales and flea markets.

Image added to illustrate your text...
http://velospace.org/files/hydaside.jpg

More on this modded Hyda (Hide-a-bike - Geddit? (http://velospace.org/node/1739)
They look cute! It should be mentioned though, that the 'u' framed bike (many exist in one or other variation of this geometry) is not generally regarded to be amazingly robust as it can flex (and crack) in the bottom of the U, so is more suited to short haul or occasional use.

Saying that - some cool things can be done (http://www.fixedgeargallery.com/2005/oct/boe_fixed.htm) with u frames:
http://www.fixedgeargallery.com/2005/oct/boe_fixed-4.jpg

here a lil number I have been fixing up. before and after pics.

IIRC the first folding bike was patented in the 1870s.

For a really watershead, influential design, I'd point to the Bickerton.

TCS

here a lil number I have been fixing up. before and after pics.

I was in Milan earlier this week and saw two or three of this style of bike running around, they looked brand new, so I guess they are still marketed, well, why not, it's a classic design.