1949 Rudge Pathfinder
The Rudge Pathfinder, built by Raleigh, was a versatile bicycle suitable for club cycling and touring, as well as everyday cycling. Among the first Raleigh bicycles to employ Reynolds 531 tubing, it was functionally identical to the more common Raleigh Lenton, though it featured unique Rudge styling accents. Priced attractively, the range was a success for Raleigh.
This rare example of a 1949 Pathfinder underwent extensive restoration with us. The polychromatic, turquoise blue enamel finish was painstakingly matched from original paint remaining on the frame. The decal set was recreated to match the design in the 1949 catalogue.
The component outfit is also very close to correct for the 1949 catalogue, which required sourcing many parts lost from the bicycle. The owner still has the original alloy mudguards though, unfortunately, they aren’t featured in these photos.