1970s Birmingham Small Arm 'Tour de France' - Amazing whip.
Description
What a dream of a bicycle. I think it's a brilliant example of British engineering/design. Built like a tank. It's an absolute whale of a bicycle but for Glasgow's rough roads and getting around town it is so perfect. The steel frame and cush seat absorb the shite-pavement surprisingly well. I think this was originally released in the 70s. I believe it was made in the Raleigh factory but the BSA branding is spot on (the colour is killer). Almost everything is original - even the shift cable housing (although I've replaced the inner cables). Originally marketed as a sports bike it was listed in the 1970s at £100, really top of the line for the time. Obviously it is so heavy ( a lot of nice chrome parts) that it cannot compete with modern bikes in terms of acceleration but it is smooth shifting, geared for high speeds, and a pleasure to ride. I'm only selling the bicycle because Im headed home to laugh at American politics. Bummed to see this one go - without a doubt my favourite cycle to date.
The picture is from this spring - since then I've put the bicycle on a bit of a diet and removed the rear rack/bin and fenders but can include them and a few other extras if you're keen. I'm a graduate mechanical engineer at U of G and have spent a fair amount of money keeping this bike in good condition. There are plenty of dings and chips as you'd expect for a 40+ year old bike but the frame is straight as a mofo. I am 5'10" (177cm) and the bicycle fits like a glove.
Any questions, don't hesitate to ask.
Best,
Aaron