Raleigh Record Ace model 26 frame number help

[74Pirate]

Hi guys

i just picked up a gorgeous RRA today with the very unusual frame number 1257 F.S
just wondered if anyone can shed some light on it - named rider , special build etc??
it’s a keeper so no rush to know but it would be cool if it turned out to be something
different. Here are a few pics

cheers , Mike

 

[Guinessisgoodforyou]

Can't help, lovely frame

 

[74Pirate]

Can't help, lovely frame

Thanks - they’re worth a google. Raleigh’s top post war bike. I’ve been after one for yonks

 

[Guinessisgoodforyou]

I like Raleighs I have/had a few.

 

[vcballbat]

Looking like the same frame with similar number system. Some of the special build Raleigh's for Managers and employee's use initials and either date of birth or date of built.

 

[3wheeler7]

Hi, I was watching that one, was thinking of having a bid too but reason got the better of me! A good pick up, nice frame, nice wheels, correct stem, correct seat pin and looks like the correct clip headset (although the ali lubrication washer is missing).

I already have 3 Model 26 RRAs, the one in the attached pic is frame number 1318FS, I also remember 1336FS being sold on Ebay last year.

The 50s RRAs didn't always seem to follow Raleighs "generally accepted" yearly frame numbering system, it appears to me that the earlier frame numbers did but later on random RRA specific batch numbering took over. As no records appear to exist for the randoms it's nigh on impossible to put an exact year of manufacture to them.

I've spent a few years researching the Model 26 and tracking down original RRA parts (not easy) I don't know your plans for the bike but if you've any questions I'd be pleased to help.

 

[grantoury]

Nice Raleigh frame. I had a younger model with the same fork crown, if you can call it a crown. Is there a special term for this style fork?

 

[3wheeler7]

I refer to them as "thimble lugged" for obvious reasons. I cannot claim to be the originator though

 

[sdp2112]

Hi guys

i just picked up a gorgeous RRA today with the very unusual frame number 1257 F.S
just wondered if anyone can shed some light on it - named rider , special build etc??
it’s a keeper so no rush to know but it would be cool if it turned out to be something
different. Here are a few pics

cheers , Mike

Is it not a RRA Moderne, late 50's?

 

[3wheeler7]

All three bikes pictured so far in this thread are, without doubt, RRA Model 26.