This auction is for one used 1961 Rudge "Sports" bicycle. The bike appears to be all original with the exception of the pedals and Shimano top tube cable guides. The bike shifts and brakes with no issues. Headset turns smoothly and wheels spin well. The fork has a nice chrome crown lug. The color-matched fenders have some wear (scratches and light dents/dings) but are still intact. Frame has wear in many places but no major cracks, bends or dents. The head badge is missing. Includes the famous and unique Rudge "hand" logo crankset.

Dan Rudge built the first Rudge High bicycles in 1870. In 1894 it merged with the Whitworth Cycle Co to form Rudge-Whitworth. They made an excellent reputation for themselves over the next twenty years for producing a full range of beautifully made machines with many clever and unique features and ridden by King George V and family. Their road racers were widely used and they diversified into motorcycles in the early 20th century. In 1935 they were bought by EMI (the record company) and under Jack Lauterwasser's direction produced some superb top end racers as well as more mundane machines. EMI however soon decided that cycles were not for them and Rudge was sold to Raleigh in 1943. Raleigh had acquired Humber in 1933 and were to acquire many others after WWII and soon used the Rudge name to badge engineer what were essentially Raleigh machines with Rudge pattern fork crown and chainwheel.

Measurements:

Seat Tube (center to center): 21"

Top Tube (center to center): 21.5"

Stand-over Height: 30.5" from top of top tube to ground.

Specifications:

Seatpost: Unbranded Steel - Original

Saddle: Unbranded Spring Mattress - Original

Stem: Unbranded Steel 35mm Quill - Original

Handlebars: Steel Chrome English Cruiser Bar (left grip has 1cm split, see photo) - Original

Headset: Unbranded 1" English - Original

Brake Levers: Unbranded Steel - Original

Brake Calipers: Unbranded Steel Single Pivot (perhaps Phillips brand) - Original

Shifters: Sturmey Archer 3sp - Original

Crankset: Rudge Single Ring, 165mm Arms - Original

Pedals: Unbranded Platform - Possibly NOT Original

Hubs laced to Rims: Front - Phillips Oil Port Hub w/Raleigh 26" x 1 3/8" Rim, Rear - Sturmey Archer AW-3sp w/Sturmey Archer 26" x 1 3/8" Rim (rims match well) - Appear to be original

Tires: Million "New Sports" 26" x 1 3/8" - Some visable sidewall cracking, but hold air and are ride worthy - Appear to be original

Serial #2773184

Reference #68123