Hercules "royal Prince" Made In Birmingham.

[Eatontkd]

Hmm, just realized my 700cc road bike wheels fit the Rudge frame... might be a game changer!

 

[bulldog1935]

will certainly give you great tire choices

 

[Miketothek]

My $30.00 1953 Rudge:
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Seems like so much to do on this one. However, people seem to be more excited about this one then the Hercules.

I want that sprocket so bad! Awesome bike man.

 

[dweenk]

Did TI buy Armstrong cycles? If so, was that before or after the Raleigh deal?

 

[bulldog1935]

Did TI buy Armstrong cycles? If so, was that before or after the Raleigh deal?

British Cycle Corporation was formed in 1956 by Tube Investments to take over the Birmingham makers, Hercules, Armstrong and Brampton.
1958, TI took over Sun
1960 is when TI took over Raleigh
https://www.gracesguide.co.uk/British_Cycle_Corporation

Raleigh began buying up other cycle makers in the 30s and 40s
https://www.gracesguide.co.uk/British_Cycle_Corporation

 

[dweenk]

Thanks for your reply. It appears that TI had a plan well before the Raleigh purchase.

 

[neighbor]

Looking to restore this Hercules. The chrome looks good from a distance and the paint is worn through to the primer in many spots. I'd like to find it's year of production but the only stamp I can find is "B 1405" on the fork below the headset. The 3-speed hub is made by Hercules not S/A. Any ideas on how to find the date on this one would be appreciated!
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Here’s a bit more info

Hercules Royal Prince

www.frankb.us

 

[neighbor]

Getting this today. Only thing missing is the seat bag and original grips.

 

[Oilit]

Getting this today. Only thing missing is the seat bag and original grips.

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Nice project, that should clean up and be a looker! Have you checked the rear hub for a date? From the bikes I've seen, @Gasbag is correct on dating Hercules hubs so you can at least get close on the year.

 

[neighbor]

Here it is, looks like a 1954 time capsule. I’m “chuffed” as they’d say in OL’ Blighty