SWB0 GRRR.... Gonna Remain Righteously Ratty

[sdframe]

I wasn't going to enter this build-off, but two days ago I found a $20 skinny wheel "English Racer" in need of some love. I like the faded metallic red patina, the curved top tube and the brass(?) head badge.
Will try to retain the SA three-speed coaster brake setup if it works, or switch to a freewheel single speed setup. I have a perfect ratty leather saddle for it in storage, and a cool Nitto neck that'll fit. I may clear coat the existing finish with Effex. It WILL remain ratty.
Here it is, as bought.

 

[Wildcat]

It has a nice even patina. The rims aren't rusty and it has a Sturmey Archer 3 speed w coaster brake. It probably just needs new tubes and 26 x 1 3/8ths tires.

I had one of those with the curved top tube on my last ship while in the Navy. It was a 69 Hercules. The hub has the date on it in 2 digits. Yours is one of those branded Raleigh made bikes from the 60's or 70's. I can't tell what brand from the seat tube decal.

Mine was stripped down and I rode it all over Gitmo while we housed Haitians in the well deck of our ship for a month in 1992. The red paint was shining like new and all the chrome was excellent. I had to fly home on emergency leave and the bike was either left in Cuba or thrown overboard. Nobody knew nothin'!

 

[OddJob]

RaT oN~!

 

[sdframe]

The seat tube says Ross, but the head but the head badge and down tube say Armstrong.

 

[Captain Awesome]

The seat tube says Ross, but the head but the head badge and down tube say Armstrong.
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Ross Armstrong…

Good guy. Play pickleball with him on the weekends

 

[sdframe]

It has a nice stance as bought.

 

[sdframe]

Ross Armstrong…

Good guy. Play pickleball with him on the weekends

I hope he doesn't cheat.

 

[Wildcat]

I found a 64.

 

[sdframe]

I messed around with the rusted SA hub, and couldn't get it working. I think I'll go with my single-speed freewheel wheelset. The other parts that need to go are the fenders, bars, stem, grips, well-worn pedals, saddle and its short post.
Hasta la vista, nasty old parts!

 

[sdframe]

I found a 64.
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[sdframe]

So THAT'S what it's supposed to look like!