Lugged Frame Western Flyer?

[RaleighRich]

First of all, let me say I know essentially nothing about old bicycles. A salvage yard here has what appears to be a rather old Western Flyer 3 speed with a lugged frame, cottered cranks, and an oiler on the bottom bracket. My experience with Western Flyers goes back to the late 50's, and never have I seen one in this configuration.

Just thought I would present some photos here to see what you guys make of it. Its not is great shape, but does look like a project -- not sure if anyone would be interested in it or not, or whether it warrants it.

What interests me is a sticker (photo to follow) that states "Made in England" Possible Raleigh badged up as a Western Flyer? There has to be some interesting history there?

Should anyone be interested, I'm certain it could be purchased for next to nothing. (Maybe thats what it worth -- nothing)

JR's Recyclables: (217) 274 9494 -- near Hoopeston, IL (100 miles south of Chicago)

 

[SirMike1983]

Looks to me like a 1960s Raleigh product. Some of the peripheral parts look to be leftovers from Birmingham production being used up by Raleigh. Frame definitely looks Raleigh to me. After the merger with British Cycle in 1960, Raleigh inherited quite a number of parts and tooling from the former Birmingham brands. They often mixed in those parts on non-Raleigh brand bikes they made for others, including this Western Flyer.

 

[mongeese]

Raleigh is correct

 

[RaleighRich]

Looks to me like a 1960s Raleigh product. Some of the peripheral parts look to be leftovers from Birmingham production being used up by Raleigh. Frame definitely looks Raleigh to me. After the merger with British Cycle in 1960, Raleigh inherited quite a number of parts and tooling from the former Birmingham brands. They often mixed in those parts on non-Raleigh brand bikes they made for others, including this Western Flyer.

Thanks! That is very interesting and informative!
What Im reading the current bicycle industry is struggling to say the least. So, yes, that makes sense back in the day to use whatever inventory was available. Still curious why Western Flyer would source bicycles from the UK, but then, they got them here there and lots of places from what (little) I know about it.

 

[RaleighRich]

Raleigh is correct

Thanks for the info! My cycling partner had a Raleigh 3 speed many years ago and saw similarities in this one.
I know we can't save them all, but this one seems unique for what it is.

 

[SirMike1983]

Thanks! That is very interesting and informative!
What Im reading the current bicycle industry is struggling to say the least. So, yes, that makes sense back in the day to use whatever inventory was available. Still curious why Western Flyer would source bicycles from the UK, but then, they got them here there and lots of places from what (little) I know about it.

British Cycle Corp and, later, TI/Raleigh were adept at producing cost-effective "lightweight" bikes for private labels if ordered in bulk. Three speed bikes were popular in the 1960s. A bike like the red one you located was an economy model for Raleigh that offered decent quality at a relatively inexpensive price.

 

[Misterotis]

Definitely Raleigh. Here is my 1961, pic with the whitewalls is how it was when I got it. @KevinX has a gorgeous red one, probably how yours looked new.

 

[RaleighRich]

British Cycle Corp and, later, TI/Raleigh were adept at producing cost-effective "lightweight" bikes for private labels if ordered in bulk. Three speed bikes were popular in the 1960s. A bike like the red one you located was an economy model for Raleigh that offered decent quality at a relatively inexpensive price.

Thanks everyone! Its all beginning to make more sense now.
That is a beauty you have pictured there --- and REALLY appreciate the Western Auto ad!!