1947 Raleigh Dawn Tourist
The customer shopping for a practical everyday Raleigh in 1947 could choose between two main designs: the traditional "Gentleman's" roadster with large wheels and high riding position and the newer "Sports" models which had smaller wheels and were more nimble. The Dawn was a marriage between the two, having smaller wheels, while keeping an upright riding position and rod brakes (which were still much admired at the time). Some of the latest developments in cycling were added, such as dynamo powered front and rear lamps and the handlebar mounted Sturmey Archer gear selector. Period correct examples of these were found to finish this restoration.
Due to wartime shortages Raleigh's from this era would often forgo chrome in favour black painted components, however this example appears to been fully outfitted with chrome parts which have been refinished for the restoration.
The original rear Sturmey Archer was internally in very poor condition. After a full strip down, extensive cleaning and some replaced worn parts it is now flawless.
Processes required
Shot blast
Chrome
Paint
Decals recreated
Job duration - 12 months