Raleigh Twenty (Stowaway) folding bike - Renovated, please read description

This lovely bronze/green 1978 Raleigh 20 folder (some models badged ‘Stowaway’) has been lovingly renovated. The best of the old has been kept while modern improvements have been made to make a better riding experience and to future proof for maintenance.

Please read on.

The best of the old: Solid, reliable frame that rides like a full size bike; A newer version of Sturmey Archer’s 3 speed hub (R-SF3) giving a good range of gears for general use; Frame folds almost in half, will fit in the boot of most cars; Handlebars and seat post drop down using quick release clamps for easy storage; Chrome not exactly as new on mudguards and handlebars but close to excellent; Fitted with the original Pletscher rack (despite all the ‘progress’ these are still the lightest rack around); Someone once remarked that the original handlebars on these bikes make them look like they are smiling 😊They do!

Modern improvements: Braking much improved by the use of long drop Altenburger callipers teamed with the original Weinmann levers and ‘V’ brake style blocks; Aluminium rim wheels for weight saving and improved braking; The wheels are slightly smaller than the originals being 406 with 40-406 tyres allowing a greater range of tires to be fitted than the old 451s that are becoming difficult to find; Square taper bottom bracket cartridge and suitable modern crankset added replacing the partially seized cup and cone bottom bracket set and those horrid cotter pin things (I have always had a hate/hate relationship with them) and a partially seized; Gear shifter is a new SunRace 3 speed trigger shifter made for 3 speed hubs (Totally compatible wit S/A hubs. SunRace bought out the old Sturmey Archer brand and tooling), easy, reliable and accurate; New inner cables all round with new outer brake cables to improve braking performance; New micro-adjust seat post and a replacement saddle.

Reason for sale: I am trying to reduce the number of bikes we have. Already having another Raleigh 20 Stowaway that I have renovated in the same way and another folder, plus 4 ‘proper’ bikes, I thought it was time to move this one on, to let someone else have some fun, and to create some space.

I would prefer collection only so that the buyer can see the bike before they take it away happy. 

Please feel free to ask any questions.