In reply to Don Wilson's subject and his questions has surprised me
because only a week ago I wrote a caution to any buyers/ bidders
thinking of purchasing Claud Butler frames of this era be aware of the
possible over sized bracket. More surprised I did'nt receive any
comeback on my efforts to alert members of this problem!
However to answer Don's questions , yes they did have a head badge in
genuine brass and CB painted logo plus an oversized Chater Lea bottom
bracket shell.They may still be obtained as second hand and used but I
would think hard to get,no doubt !.
All is not lost if anyone has no chance of buying an over size cups and
axle as the shell can be replaced/re.sleeved with the normal sized
threading by any competent frame builder. Although this adds to the
cost, it has I have discovered in the past well worth the extra costs
and overcomes any future problems.
There would be no problem with the chainring /crank set fitting as the
axle diameter is exactly the same size of all the normal bottom bracket.
The subject of gearing is a personel choice especially as derailleur
gears were limited and fix wheel riding was the choice by most riders
as being unable to afford gears of any description was the reason. The
other alternative ofcourse to this is the old faithful Sturmey Archer
three speed.
Doug Smith
North Dorset
UK