gdhillard

I just brought home a 1976 (?) Raliegh Sprite 27, in a deep metalflake brown, the lady's version. I always likes the old upright Ralieghs, and had a couple over the years. This one looks like it has been in the living room since production, with the original tires still wearing the casting ridges. No rust, a little chrome flaking on the rear rim, but otherwise perfect. Gears and brakes were already adjusted perfectly, and I oiled the chain and derailleur, put some air in the tires and took it out on the Greenway for a spin. eight miles later, I think I'm going to keep this one! Fast enough, really comfortable in a weird, totally upright sort of way, and fun on the corners and climbing the hills. Totally different than the road bike I am usually on, but in a really nice way. The only doubt I have is turning such a pristine example into a daily rider. Any thoughts on this, or suggestions?

jonwvara 

Nice bike--I have a men's version in a 25" frame, same approximate year and color. I built a new set of wheels for it with two cogs on a Sturmey-Archer AW and ran it as a six-speed for a few years, though it's not really suitable for the mountainous terrain around here. It now spends a lot of time sleeping. If it's a comfortable rider for you, I'd keep riding it. Maybe service the bearing if you feel up to it, but a lot of Raleighs get ridden for decade upon decade with no maintenance beyond air in the tires and an occasion chain oiling.

autoteacher

Very nice!

Ride it lube it, enjoy!