Elswick Hopper Lincoln Imp

[rfjshepherd]

Just bought a Elswick Hopper Lincoln Imp, the serial number has an S so that makes it a 1963 or 64/65 depending on which data base you look at.
I am wondering how original it is, the alloy GB bars and stem with a protruding nut and an odd headset with a locknut but round race nut look original as does the steel cottered crank 46 teeth. I am concerned about the weineman brakes, side pull with a nut fastening and matching drop levers no hoods. They seem to date from the 60's but??. The rear mech is campag valentino with a hanger, I thought it would have a brazed on hanger but no, if it was a retro job it was done well. The front shifter is also campag but a clamp on, above a single brazed on boss ?
The rear wheel is 40 hole large flange steel 27 inch with a 5 speed freewheel on one side and a single on the other, the spokes don't look good. The front wheel is a raleigh non original.
No seat post or saddle I found a 26.4 seat post fitted but wonder if it might really be 26.8

 

[keithglos]

What you describe sounds about right for what was a low end bike.
Keith

 

[OldTel]

Hi, a piccie will help, but everything sounds there about, the campag derailleur and front wheel are probably replacements, this is elswicks attempt at a mid range machine, but always within a budget, I do have a soft spot for them ( there's a 1960 frame in the corner of my garage waiting in the queue ). The seat tube diameter is correct, I do remember one of my imps having that diameter, has it a wrapover stay ? Terry

 

[Old Ned]

If you're really desperate to find out PM me and I can put you in touch with the guy who knows LOTS about Elswick.

 

[Demelza22]

Well the issue is one thing that not enough persons are speaking intelligently about. I am very completely satisfied that.

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