[CR]1937 Claude Butler

(Example: Framebuilders:Jack Taylor)

From: "Doug Smith" <doug@kingsweir.plus.com>
To: <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Date: Tue, 13 Jun 2006 21:13:29 +0100
Subject: [CR]1937 Claude Butler

In reply to Don Wilson's subject and his questions has surprised me because only a week ago I wrote a caution to any buyers/ bidders thinking of purchasing Claud Butler frames of this era be aware of the possible over sized bracket. More surprised I did'nt receive any comeback on my efforts to alert members of this problem! However to answer Don's questions , yes they did have a head badge in genuine brass and CB painted logo plus an oversized Chater Lea bottom bracket shell.They may still be obtained as second hand and used but I would think hard to get,no doubt !. All is not lost if anyone has no chance of buying an over size cups and axle as the shell can be replaced/re.sleeved with the normal sized threading by any competent frame builder. Although this adds to the cost, it has I have discovered in the past well worth the extra costs and overcomes any future problems.
   There would be no problem with the chainring /crank set fitting as the axle diameter is exactly the same size of all the normal bottom bracket. The subject of gearing is a personel choice especially as derailleur gears were limited and fix wheel riding was the choice by most riders as being unable to afford gears of any description was the reason. The other alternative ofcourse to this is the old faithful Sturmey Archer three speed. Doug Smith North Dorset UK