Originally Posted by
tmac100
I am sorry that I have not followed this thread and have only read the first page or so..
Where I live, many people ride a single-speed Atlas or Hero made in India patterned on the old (pre-WW II) British single-speed bicycle. The rims are steel and are 28".
It seems to me that if a 3-speed hub would be used in place of the s-s one, then you would have the type of bike the OP yearned for. The Indian saddles are imitation leather but are very comfortable with their rear coiled springs. Pretty cheap too - and heavy and durable. Where I live the bikes go for less than $100 US. However, in the USA there would be importer's profits, etc.
Just a thought :-)
Velo Orange imports a Indian roadster IIRC. Also there are a number of importers and/or dealers for the Chinese Flying Pigeon Raleigh roadster clones. Unfortunately prices here are considerably above the $100 you mention.
I have no idea whether the Indian or Chinese made bikes are better mechanically and in quality of finish.
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Gear Hubs Owned: Rohloff disc brake, SRAM iM9 disc brake, SRAM P5 freewheel, Sachs Torpedo 3 speed freewheel, NuVinci CVT, Shimano Alfine SG S-501, Sturmey Archer S5-2 Alloy. Other: 83 Colnago Super Record, Univega Via De Oro
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