A very early Brompton Mk2 T5 bicycle for restoration, dating from early 1989 and now approximately 37 years old.

According to David Henshaw's book, following the initial small batches of Mk1 bicycles, Brompton began Mk2 production in 1988, starting at serial number 600 and producing just over two bicycles a day. This example, serial number 1317, falls within the first approximately 750 Mk2 bicycles and dates from the early part of 1989.

Condition and Restoration

The paintwork is in poor condition, with blistering and external corrosion. The visible interior of the main frame looks clean by comparison, with just minor surface corrosion, although this is a visual observation.

The roller-wheels and their curved mounts are original and undamaged (not bent, like many others). The bracket for one of the wheels to the rear of the original rack is twisted, but I expect it could be straightened.

The bicycle needs a thorough strip-down and assessment before restoration. Paint removal, corrosion treatment and repainting/powder-coating will be required, and the rear hinge assembly may also need attention. It is sold as a restoration project, not as a serviced bicycle ready to ride.

This is a substantial project, but an opportunity to restore a very early example.

Originality and Later Changes

Much of the bicycle's early equipment remains present, including the hand-brazed, chrome-plated steel rear rack used before the introduction of later aluminium racks. The original front and rear lights and rear reflector are also present.

It started life as a top-of-the-range T5 with five-speed gearing operated by two separate handlebar triggers. The original steel-rimmed wheels have subsequently been replaced with aluminium-rimmed wheels, and the rear wheel now carries a Sturmey-Archer BSR three-speed hub.

The original dynamo is missing (they weren't reliable).

One three-position Sturmey-Archer trigger remains. Its lever is held in one position with an elastic band, and gear operation has not been verified. The existing gear cable, outer casing and control will need assessment as part of the restoration.

This bicycle predates Brompton's rear-frame retaining catch. The rear frame swings down when the bicycle is lifted, which is normal for this early arrangement. A later catch can be retrofitted if desired.

The handlebars appear to be original. Brompton subsequently offered a reinforcing brace for older handlebars due to some handlebar failures after a bad batch in 1995. Given their age and unknown history, their suitability for continued use should be assessed rather than assumed.

Original Parts Present

• Chrome-plated steel rear rack with shock cord (stretched) and hooks
• Front and rear lights and rear reflector; the lights have not been demonstrated working because the dynamo is missing
• Handlebar
• Handlebar grips
• German-made bell
• Frame clamps
• Brake levers
• Brake calipers
• Non-folding pedals
• Plastic trouser-protector ring; this has a small split which may be repairable
• Mudguards and rain flap; the mudguards are discoloured
• Saddle, seatpost and seatpost clamp
• Other original fittings

Non-Original Parts

• Tyres: later Brompton tyres in place of the original Raleigh Record tyres
• Cranks: I think these may be later replacements (they originally would have been branded Solida, not Brompton)
• Wheels: later aluminium rims in place of the original steel rims. The braking surfaces appear in good condition, and the rim-wear indicator grooves remain visible
• Rear hub: a Sturmey-Archer BSR three-speed hub in place of the original five-speed hub

Missing Parts

I have done my best to identify these, but the list may not be exhaustive:

• Pump
• Dynamo
• Second T5 gear shifter and associated cable equipment, no longer required by the fitted three-speed hub

Packing and Shipping

The bicycle will be packed in a modern Brompton cardboard shipping box with suitable internal packaging. The left-hand pedal and saddle will be detached for shipping.

International shipping is offered through eBay International Shipping where available for this item and the buyer's destination. eBay calculates and collects the international delivery charges and any applicable import charges.

Please study the photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.