Just bought this...

[GarryG]

I've been looking around at models and I think it's a popular.

Also the original paint has been covered with what looks to be a black oily based painted, does anyone know the best way of removing it without damaging the original paint underneath?

 

[GarryG]

Done a bit of digging, looks like Hercules were part of CCM, and their dating chart show bikes with a stamp on -B---- were made in 1938 and my date stamp is XB514 making it pre-war.

Meaning it also has one of the very early Sturmey Archer AW hubs as they were only produced from 1936.

 

[Rob Elliott]

That's gorgeous! And a bargain even if it just gives you something to do on a wet afternoon! Good luck with the restoration, and I hope you'll post photos of the finished article.

 

[raleighnut]

I've been looking around at models and I think it's a popular.

Also the original paint has been covered with what looks to be a black oily based painted, does anyone know the best way of removing it without damaging the original paint underneath?

If the paint is an underseal type and a bit tacky white spirit on a rag might shift it, I have heard there was a wartime paint that was supposed to be removable but that may be hearsay, white spirit won't hurt though.

 

[GarryG]

Well just put some air in the tyres and have done 2-3 miles on it, no problems with the brakes or gears at all.

A comfortable ride too!

Thinking I might need to sell one of the others to concentrate on this one.

 

[GarryG]

Does anyone have any idea what this would be worth, only difference now is it has had a clean?

Have been asked if I'm selling, advised no as I was unsure on value.

Any ideas?

 

[User42423]

That hub looks similar to this one taken off a humber. Could only date my humber between 36 and 52 from head badge. View attachment 54567

Hi. Your Sturmey Archer 3-speed hub is an early AW 'patent'. These were 1st introduced in 1937. They succeed the old K-type.