I've finally gotten over the worst of my grief after my beloved 1965 Raleigh 'Superbe' (green) was stolen… It was a gift from my parents, which I rode constantly from 1965 - 2012… It was the best Christmas gift I ever received.

So, I've decided I can finally bear to replace her, but I'm no bike expert - I just know I've never ridden a bike that felt like my old girl. I'm currently living near Riverside, California, but I'll be moving soon to a fishing village in the Bahamas (not the fancy Bahamas!), but I've told my fisherman fiancé that I want a bike, not just a sturdy house! The only way I'd consider an alternative to finding a vintage Raleigh, would be, perhaps, to get a new Danish Raleigh, although I just discovered Dutch bikes tonight. How would I even go about getting a Danish Raleigh?

So, in the beginning phase of research, I came across you! Can you give me any words of wisdom? I will, of course, start combing the online places like eBay & CraigsList, but again, I'm no mechanic or expert -- and live on modest means. I had to (had the good fortune to?) start completely over at age 55 - a truly fresh start, and I'll be moving to a world of self-sustaining fishing and a family farm! I'll probably not have the luxury of the kind of time it might take to find a good used bike and perhaps restore it, etc. So, I'm casting out a wide net, to try and gather as much input (and encouragement) as I can!

Raleigh regards,
Theresa

Hello TeckLadyT welcome to the forums. Sorry to hear about your Superbe. I don't want to say they area dime a dozen but nice Raleigh 3spd are always showing up different places. It may not be a '65 but a nice green Raleigh may be right around the corner. Don't forget to check out swap meets too.

You also need to look around for a co-op or other place where you can learn bike maintenance/repair.

How far from Chula Vista are you? This may be worth looking at. 21.5" Vintage Raleigh Superbe 3 spd Townie Commuter bike British



https://images.craigslist.org/00q0q_5...YL_600x450.jpg

Thanks BianchiGirl! I feel optimistic about a Superbe, hearing that from an experienced person such as yourself! Do you have any knowledge of how to track down a Danish or Dutch bike? My fiancé's family are on 2 different islands, so perhaps TWO bikes are in order…?

Welcome to bikeforums, TeckLadyT. You'll find a lot of information here to get you up to speed -- I only discovered cycling a couple of years ago and this has been my number one resource, both for the pros and cons of any used bike I may encounter, and for learning how to repair and maintain them.

If you're patient, the right bike will come across Craigslist sooner or later. Check daily, and have some money set aside so you can jump on "your" bike as soon as you encounter the ad. You can find really nice used bikes for $200 or less, given time. And to make your search easier, make sure you have Craigslist set to "gallery" so you can quickly scan the pictures for what you want.

When you see something you like, post the ad in the "Classic & Vintage Bicycles: What's it Worth?" forum. You'll get numerous responses quickly, listing everything that's right and wrong with the bike, the work it appears to require, and a fair valuation. From there you can decide whether it's worth your hard-earned money or not.

Good luck in your search!

I think there is a website specializing in Dutch or Dutch style bikes. As for the Dutch Raleigh that could be tricky. Companies have marketing agreements and the company that owns the Raleigh name in the Netherlands may not be able to ship a bike to the U.S.

Years ago Bianchi offered this beautiful scarf I really wanted, charcoal grey Merino wool with a Celeste pinstripes, but Bianchi Italy could not ship it to the US. So I had a Squadron mate's girlfriend in England order the scarf and then one of the other guys in the unit picked it up for me and 'muled' it back to the states. There are was to get around the rules but it can be pricey.

Hmmm… You've inspired me, yet again! The Bahamas is an independent country, but is a member of the British Commonwealth of Nations for trade purposes. So, once I arrive there, I may well have an avenue for the Danish or Dutch bike. And, I can get a vintage Raleigh while still in the states, since the family lives on 2 different islands! I don't know you, but I like you! I really admire Bianchi scarves -- my best friend is French and I've been fortunate enough to end up with a Hermčs & Chanel scarf, as well as a silk scarf she hand-painted...

The Superbe and the Sport are just about the same bike. The Sport lacks the carrier, the fork lock and the lighting system. Depending on the machine, the Superbe also tended to have a Brooks leather saddle.

What I am getting at here is that you might want to consider a Sport if the lack of extras is not a problem or can be gotten around (like upgrading the seat, adding a rack and modern lighting...). The rack to add IMO is an old Pletcher, you can find them cheap ($5.00), they are sturdy, look the part and bolt right up.

Here is a great deal in Orange County at Goodwill

https://www.shopgoodwill.com/auctions...-19055045.html


Raleigh Tourist DL1 28 Wheels Womens Dutch Loop Roadster Rod Brake Vintage Bike | eBay


If you are looking for a loop frame setup, check out Electra, Publicbikes, and even new Raleigh Route 3.0

PUBLIC C7 - Our Classic Dutch City Bike

https://www.rei.com/c/bikes#c3JwYWdlP...NpemU9MzA%253D

While the Sprite isn't as desirable, they are perfectly fine bicycles and can be had inexpensively. While these bikes required some work, they are shown as acquired for a total outlay of $60, from two different sellers. You have to move quickly to find deals like this, although the ladies bike below was advertised for a week.

Wow! I've learned so much from this forum in just One Day! And OddJob, not only did you point me in a great direction, but your username is a GREAT handle!

Truly, I can't thank you enough, Mr. OddJob -- I am now the proud owner of that Electra Amsterdam. She's in the shop, getting a physical, and she's a real beauty. I love everything about her. I bought her some jewelry, so to speak: an old-fashioned bell, a basket, and next will be a headlight and rear rack. You have my eternal gratitude for introducing us… Thank you for the efforts you give the the community. Theri