Hi guys!

New the site, and hoping to get some help with/show off my latest acquisition - what I believe to be a mid 50's Rudge Whitworth.

Through the wonderful thing that is Hard Rubbish Collection (basically everyone dumps all their trash on the nature strip for the council to collect. Some of us like to grab what we can and recycle, restore and reuse whatever we can) I came across this brilliant looking bike and I'm looking to restore it over the coming months.

I've only been able to find very limited info on the company online, and it appears that my bike was built after Raleigh took ownership of the company as the cranks and stem both have "Raleigh Equipment" or similar stamped in them. And the bike is identical to the Raleigh Roadsters of the time.

A few photos...



As you can see it's missing the seat & seat post - not the end of the world as I can source another Brooks B73 quite easily.

It seems to have a bit of an issue with the bottom bracket or the cotters as the pedals move on the axle, and the wires from the Dynamo-hub have been cut and the light is missing. Both wheels seem to run true, with the rear having a very slight buckle. Front brakes are operating perfectly, rears need some love. The bike is currently black, but the chain guard seems to be the Maroon colour that was available for these bikes. Both mudguards are in excellent condition, and the rear reflector housing is all in tact.

The worst thing by far is the rust & crack in the chainstay - I'm not sure how far this cancer has spread. If it can be repaired I plan a full restoration. I'm taking it to my local vintage specialist to see what they say.

So, all you vintage guys out there, any info/history on the brand and any leads ID'ing the bike? I was hoping to have her ready for the Melbourne Tweed Ride in a few weeks time but that seems a bit far fetched. Will just have to get my single speed finished in time and take it instead!