Carlton Cobra

[Plumby]

I own a Carlton Cobra and would like to find out its age. I've found two serial numbers, one underneath the crank (24WR38D0) and the other is on the seat downtube (ND5251305). Can anyone shed any light on what these numbers represent, please?

 

[Paulus]

I own a Carlton Cobra and would like to find out its age. I've found two serial numbers, one underneath the crank (24WR38D0) and the other is on the seat downtube (ND5251305). Can anyone shed any light on what these numbers represent, please?

Welcome to the group Plumby.
When you can some photos would be nice, we love photos on here.😄
The numbering system for Carltons is a bit loose to say the least, but yours would appear to be a Worksop built bike by the letters WR in the first of your numbers.

 

[midlife]

Seat tube is the frame number. Nottingham 1975. The D relates to the month of manufacture. Any pics ? I had a Cobra of that era as a kid .

 

[carpenter]

Photo's please - I used to dream of having a Cobra (in my teens)

 

[Kempstonian]

Photo's please - I used to dream of having a Cobra (in my teens)

I think Plumby has to make 5 posts before being able to upload pics, doesn't he? I want to see this one too!

 

[Plumby]

Hi Guys. Thank you for your speedy replies to my question. I had one of these bought for me for Christmas 1971, but after learning to drive it didn't seem cool to be riding a bike so I sold it in about 1977. Forty years on, I saw another one that sparked my interest and I managed to get one from Ebay. It was in a bit of a sorry state but after a bit of cleaning it came up not too bad. Although most things had to be replaced, the frame, brakes and handlebars seem to be original. It's now used summer Sunday mornings for a leisurely ride out. Photos attached.

 

[biggs682]

@Plumby nice but just check that stem to make sure it's not over the maximum markings

 

[midlife]

Nice, red acryllichrome fade the same as mine. Blue were usually ten speed. .

 

[Spokesmann]

Typical 70s Cobra, Crespera lugs and Truwel 205 tubing. Dates around 72-75. Always worth saving , if the chrome is good.

 

[Paulus]

@Plumby nice but just check that stem to make sure it's not over the maximum markings

I was going to say similar. It looks very high.

 

[Plumby]

I have just checked and can't see any maximum markings on the handlebar stem. Following an operation on my neck, it is raised high because I find it a more comfortable riding position.

 

[SkipdiverJohn]

Even if it has no markings, you still need a couple of inches inside the steerer tube for it to be safe. Best take it right out, see how long it is, then put at least two inches back into the steerer. If it's then too low for comfort you may need to replace the stem with a taller one.

 

[Illaveago]

Hi and .
Is it a 22 inch frame ?
I've got a similar frame but it has some rust pitting on it . It too is from Nottingham.
I bought mine off the bay . I thought it would look nice riding it on a sunny day .

 

[Plumby]

Hi Illaveago. I have measured the down tube from the seat to the middle of the crank casing and it is 22.5 inches, so not sure if this would be considered 22 or 23 inches. Also, have this morning lowered the handlebars by 1.5 inches as suggested. I agree, it looks better - I hope I can ride comfortably like this. Now waiting for the warmer weather.

 

[Paulus]

Hi Illaveago. I have measured the down tube from the seat to the middle of the crank casing and it is 22.5 inches, so not sure if this would be considered 22 or 23 inches. Also, have this morning lowered the handlebars by 1.5 inches as suggested. I agree, it looks better - I hope I can ride comfortably like this. Now waiting for the warmer weather.

It would be considered a 22 1/2 inch frame.