Raleigh Wayfurther

[GTHOtrod]

Why not. As I've almost finished my 'Fixin the Fixie' build, it's time to start looking at the next in line.
ORBO no.2 the Raleigh Wayfurther. Concept is to build up my cool old Raleigh Wayfarer, into something that can go way further. Want to keep the English charm, and add the modern niceties as I go.

here's the starting point. Nicely rusted and crusted Raleigh. The main thing that sold me on this bike was the Brooks. Had a big spill from the seller all about how good the saddle is, plus a very bad picture. I was somewhat disappointed that the Brooks is a cheapo vinyl version, not leather and damaged to boot.
But, on the plus side, at least I won't feel bad about anything I do to the bike now



Plus a couple free donor bikes that will be giving up some goodies

 

[GTHOtrod]

Installed the 26" wheel set from the schwinn. Removed the axle spacers and gear set from the rear. Then added a bmx free wheel. Planning to add the original 3 speed hub to a 26"rim later.

Not much clearance, but they do fit.

Made myself a stay dimpling tool, to add an extra few mm of clearance.

Stripping the donor for its bars and stem.

Also Changed out the rear rack for a better one from the stash.
Looking much better already. For what is really just wheels and bar change.

I did try a set of moto bars also. Looked cool, But they didn't suit the riding position. Plus they have a home on a future mtb project.

 

[GTHOtrod]

all trial and error at this stage, swapping parts and setting what work and what doesn't.
Got rid of the chain guard.
Longer stem to move the bars forward.
DIY Lay back seat post with the original brooks fitted.
Plus some longer reach brakes.
OK cruiser, but not what I want from it yet.

 

[OddJob]

Bag, saddle, and the tire combo fit it well. Kind of a do-it-all on/off road tour bike. Maybe less sweep on a set of bars? Otherwise this is shaping up nicely, and quickly! The original paint patina rocks too. And good move with re-moving the chain guard.

 

[GTHOtrod]

changed the bars for a shorter set, and bought the seat forward also. Bars are still not what I'm after. I'll keep experimenting.
Tried some 1.75 gum walls, but don't think they work here as well a the 1.95 black walls.

Picked up some descaler to clean the rust, and some BLO to give it all a coat once cleaned up.

Think I may need to build a cargo fork next, for gravel road cargo abilities. Something Clydesdale inspired

 

[GTHOtrod]

Laced up a foot brake hub to an old Araya rim. Simplify things at this stage while in getting thing worked out.

Start off the cargo fork. 20" wheel and fender from the donor bike, and a pair of old 10 speed forks.

Installed new cups for the new fork. Get rid of the old loose ball head set.

 

[GTHOtrod]

fork coming together

test run on the bike. Rides really well. Didn't stuff up the geometry hahaha.

ready for the rack bits to get bent, cut and welded on.

 

[GTHOtrod]

ET spec hahaha

 

[SwissGuy]

View attachment 181143fork coming togetherView attachment 181144test run on the bike. Rides really well. Didn't stuff up the geometry hahaha. View attachment 181145ready for the rack bits to get bent, cut and welded on.

At first I wondered, why did he work that strange kink/angle into his fork?

View attachment 181186ET spec hahaha

Now I see: Genius!

 

[GTHOtrod]

V brake conversion for the old Raleigh. Chopped the brake bridge off an old mtb fork. Fitted the frame perfectly. Curves over the seat stays, locking it side too side. Works amazingly well.

 

[GTHOtrod]

Cargo platform sorted.
Three speed hub laced to a Wieman 26" mtb rim.
SA Shifter mounted to the stem, as I liked it there on my MBBO,
Ditched the fenders,
Added some mtb bars
And away we go

 

[Sparky Sharky]

That is supercool!

 

[GTHOtrod]

That is supercool!

Thanks dude.

 

[OddJob]

Nice custom front fork / cargo rack mod! How does it handle down the road?
A double legged kick stand would be a good addition for when parked, especially while loaded. I used one on my Beer Boy Delivery build and it works great.

 

[GTHOtrod]

Nice custom front fork / cargo rack mod! How does it handle down the road?
A double legged kick stand would be a good addition for when parked, especially while loaded. I used one on my Beer Boy Delivery build and it works great.

View attachment 181275

It rides really good empty, yet to ride it loaded up with weight. Double stand looks a useful addition.

 

[GTHOtrod]

Few more pics. Fork turned out better than expected. I like it.
Next job it to change the gearing. Needs to be a bit more crawl, and a bit less top end.

 

[Karate Chicken Industries]

Do you plan on making a custom crate for that front rack? IMO, it would enhance the custom work already present.

 

[GTHOtrod]

Do you plan on making a custom crate for that front rack? IMO, it would enhance the custom work already present.

Not sure at this stage. I have found I nice timber crate that fits it well. The milk crate was just close and handy to show the concept in action.

 

[GTHOtrod]

Added some fenders, and gave everything a good coat of BLO, including the crate. Came up a treat.

 

[Gravelgrinder59]

I really like what you’ve done to this old Raleigh. Wish I had your fab skills, the conversion looks fantastic!