1984 Raleigh Super Course - Racing USA

Many more photos HERE. 

I started cycling seriously in the early 1980s - well, seriously-enough for me. I didn't race, but rode a lot with clubs, friends, sponsored rides. Some of the mid-level bikes of that era were heavy, not very pretty, but I always loved the bold graphics and colors of the Raleigh Racing USA series. 

This fine specimen came to me by way of eBay. A local (20 miles away) seller was offering it at a price I just couldn't pass up. I ordinarily collect more higher-end bikes, but this one was so well-preserved, that it simply begged to be brought home. 

Something that I always look for is the condition of the chrome. Since this bike has chrome forks as well as a fully-chromed rear triangle, it was crucial to me that its condition was excellent - which it is. 

Obviously kept clean and dry for the past 35 years, this bike has only minimal cosmetic damage. A few nicely-matched paint touch-ups, tiny spots here and there on the chrome, a couple small scratches on the decals... very, very clean. It's been ridden and well-loved. My favorite bikes to collect. :)

You can read more about these Raleighs HERE. 

Many more photos HERE. 

Don't forget to join our FB page and post pics of your own bikes! 

Classic Cycle - Bainbridge Island, Washington

More photos from the shop - here. 

I had the privilege to visit Classic Cycle on Bainbridge Island in Washington state. The shop is large, but as the owner, Paul mentioned, there is only room for 50 bikes along the top portion of the walls in the shop. Fifty isn't anything to sneeze at, but their collection is quite a bit bigger and they can all be seen on their website, here. 

No sense going into details, as the photos do the talking. You can find my pics here. 

Honestly, I didn't even look at the modern bicycle offerings in the store, but judging by the well-stocked shelves, terrific merchandising, and overall  friendliness of the employees, I'm sure that Classic Cycle will have anything you need and deliver it in style. 

Long Beach Motorcycle Swap Meet (Bicycles Too)

Beautiful cruiser

Schwinn Paramount with full Campagnolo. This curved seat tube (short-coupled) model was available in 1975 - 1978. Built for criterium races or for riders who wanted the quicker handling that a shorter wheelbase provides, these are more rare than the standard models form this era. 

The vendor selling this Paramount asked $1,200, but was willing to accept offers. I have a rule that I don't collect bikes that don't fit me, plus this one isn't on my list of "must-haves" so I passed on it. 

Nice Frejus for $500. 

This swap meet is held monthly at Veteran's Stadium in Long Beach, California. This is primarily a motorcycle swap, but there are about two dozen bicycle vendors, as well. The majority of the bicycle spaces are filled with balloon tire or BMX bikes. I was hoping for vintage steel racing bicycles, but there were very few - not worth the $10 admission price for the swap, but no regrets... had to check it out and it was nice to stroll around hoping to find some deals. 

If you love motorcycles, this swap is for YOU. Here's the website for it. Enjoy! 

1987 30th Anniversary - Dave Moulton Fuso

Bought this Fuso from the original owner. This is all-original, no part substitution except the bottom bracket. The owner installed a sealed BB about 20 years ago. It's in immaculate condition - even the bar wrap is original and in great shape. You can find a lot of great information on Dave Moulton's frames, his life, his achievements, on his blog HERE. 

Merlin Titanium - After Campy Refit

My friend, Jesse had a mint Campagnolo 10-speed groupo that he was willing to part with, so here's the Merlin with the mean, lean Campy setup. Since these photos were taken, I went ahead and added the Merlin decals to the frame. I think I like it with the decals - more authentic to it's legacy.