The local bike shop gave the older fellow my number. (I am older now than the "older fellow," but that's another story). He heard that I liked British bicycles; Humber especially. I had just spent all of the month's disposable income available on my teacher's salary, and as much as I like British roadsters, I initially deferred. "Listen to this," the man said, and rang the bell on the Humber's handlebars. "Okay," I said, "I'll be right over."
One look at the bicycle and I knew it was my lucky day. "The Aristocrat of All Bicycles" was new when the owner purchased it in 1952 (confirmed by the date on the Sturmey-Archer three-speed hub). The original tool bag contained the owner's manual and all accompanying Raleigh literature (Raleigh having purchased Humber in 1932). The Humber's black enamel shone in the sun; the bike begged to be ridden. This was nearly thirty years ago. How this perfectly fit gentleman could part with this beautiful bicycle he had owned for forty years is something I will never understand. Perhaps he had just read an article on the psychological value of decluttering; in any case, we collectors should be grateful for those people who can cut the emotional ties to their bicycles.
Note the Humber duplex front fork, Sturmey-Archer Dyno-hub, the Raleigh tool bag and original pump. Yes, the wiring needs a little attention.
One look at the bicycle and I knew it was my lucky day. "The Aristocrat of All Bicycles" was new when the owner purchased it in 1952 (confirmed by the date on the Sturmey-Archer three-speed hub). The original tool bag contained the owner's manual and all accompanying Raleigh literature (Raleigh having purchased Humber in 1932). The Humber's black enamel shone in the sun; the bike begged to be ridden. This was nearly thirty years ago. How this perfectly fit gentleman could part with this beautiful bicycle he had owned for forty years is something I will never understand. Perhaps he had just read an article on the psychological value of decluttering; in any case, we collectors should be grateful for those people who can cut the emotional ties to their bicycles.
Note the Humber duplex front fork, Sturmey-Archer Dyno-hub, the Raleigh tool bag and original pump. Yes, the wiring needs a little attention.
1952 Humber Sports ©Daniel Dahlquist