Royal Cycles Imperial Roadster Bicycle

This auction is for a Vintage light roadster bicycle.  This Royal Cycles Imperial is a well done lugged steel english bicycle.  We believe this bicycle to be from the 1940's, most likely early in the decade.  The seat, although it is a good fit for the bicycle, is dated to 1972 - so not original seat.  The tires also were replaced at some more recent time.  The frame has (what was once gold) pinstriping on the frame - the gold is visible on the fender.  The black paint is in good shape with some scratches, but in overall good condition.  One of the downtube decals reads "Guaranteed finest quality Steel Hand brazed bonderrized.  There is one line that is not legible.  Under the material decal is another decal that might not be original to the bicycle.  It is a picture of a devil riding a lightning bolt.  The devil is holding a silver trident.  Great picture.  Probably not original spec.  Also, there are 2 other remains of decals on the fenders.  The chainguard has a great decal of the Royal Imperial seal - in great shape.  

This good riding bicycle has 26x1 3/8" tires mounted on Sturmey Archer rims.  

The frame bottom bracket has an oiler on top non-drive side.

Fenders are a little rough.  Metal fenders with some dents, dings and scratches and some over spray of white paint.  

Black with gold pinstriping.  The gold has faded to a light blue in most spots, but there is still some visible on the rear fender.

Seat Tube (center to center) 20in

Specifications:

Seatpost - steel

Saddle - Brooks vinyl mattress, dated to 1972 - not original

Stem - about 2" long, steel quill style, 

Handlebars - North Road style, 20.5" wide, steel

Crankset - single chainring, steel cotter pin style

Pedals - "Made in England" block pedal style, definitely usable.  Left pedal is missing the end cap

hubs - Perry coaster brake hub with oiler - no model number, unmarked steel front hub

rims -  Sturmey Archer steel, 26 x 1 3/8, 40 hole rear with a 32 hole front

Freewheel (number of gears/tooth range)

Serial #

Reference #97002