#Hercules bikes serial numbers serial numbers#
#Hercules bikes serial numbers serial number#

They seem to reflect only the number of machines produced whilst each letter was in use. 1888: 1500Д«etween 1925 and the cessation of cycle production during the Second World War, letters prefixed or suffixed the running frame number although no indication is given of the starting point of the numbers.

#Hercules bikes serial numbers serial numbers#

It appears that Raleigh recycled many of the older serial numbers in later years, so there are lots of bikes from the 60s and 70s that have serial numbers that would suggest much greater age.

#Hercules bikes serial numbers serial number#

Note that the serial number information below is fragmentary and incomplete, and many bikes have proven to be much newer than the serial numbers would suggest. Early years have been estimated by the Company.

Prior to 1925, genuine Raleighs (not necessarily brand names made by Raleigh) had a straightforward numerical frame number. This is the easiest way to date a 3-speed bicycle, if it has its original rear wheel. Conveniently, they also usually have the month and the last two digits of the year of manufacture stamped onto the shell. Most older Sturmey-Archer hubs have two or three-letter model codes, which are usually stamped onto the hub shell. The Taiwanese company Sunrace bought the equipment, stock and rights to the name and is back in business. The company was sold to a group of money manipulators who shut it down in hope of making a quick profit by selling off the assets. Sturmey-Archer was a division of Raleigh, made many different models since 1902, and were still in business until October, 2000. Sturmey-Archer HubsДЄlmost all English 3-speeds have Sturmey-Archer rear hubs. We are happy to answer technical questions by email but please:Дo not write or phone us to ask the age or value of your bike.ДЄll of the information we have on that is on this Web page or on /raleigh.html Also see information at Kurt Kaminer's Headbadge site.