Re: New Carlton - Corsa Strada or Catalina chrome...
Well the machine arrived today, not the best packing I have seen, but the machine was padded in the right places and is in good condition.
It will require a top to toe refurbishment, although I'll be saving the Acrylichrome finish. Getting some of the insulting tape which seems to be abound may be more of an issue.
I still can't quite make up my mind as to the model, I though it may be a Catalina Chrome - it still could be, possibly a Corsa Strada - I have seen them with this finish. The more I look at it now, it could well be another Constellation. The frame looks well well finished - see images. The rear stays and forks look well finished, so i think its 531. It has cycle drop outs and has an H prefix on the frame number, so c1962. Frame size is 22 or 22-1/2". It has a 48-tooth Williams chain set - in great condition, and is currently driving a non-original Simplex Prestige rear mech. The frame has a braze on for the gear changer, so I suspect something a bit better was originally fitted. Brakes are Weinmann 730s and appear sound, new block will be fitted.
Cappella lugs - confirmed by the seat tube decal (other decals to be replaced), no markings showing the usual Catalina Olympic rings motif. The old alloy guards will be going as I have a spare pair of rather fetching red ones stored away. New bar tape (cloth) will be red with red bar end plugs, also a red Blumels pump to finish, along with new white ribbed cables. Curiously the cycle has come with two original alloy pumps. Saddle is restorable and is a Brooks B15 Champion narrow. Wheels are true, but will require a bit of cleaning, both have attractive Resilion large flange hubs. Both tyres are shot! these will be replaced with World Tours and new tubes. The rear wheel has a pretty close ration 5-speed block with a fixed sprocket on the other side. I will also be fitting a Carradice saddle bag and possibly a different rear mech and front change lever.
All in all Im pretty happy with the bike, it will take a bit of work, but it should look pretty eye catching once I have finished with it. More soon, but here are a few images as unwrapped today.
