Hello - building kit bike to Triumph Bicycle

bdavanza · #1 (**permalink**) 11-19-2008, 10:22 AM

Hello
I picked up a kit on ebay, supposed 80cc kit from powerkingshop. I build/fix restore Triumph motorcycles and I have a cool 3 speed Triumph Bicycle, I think made by Raleigh and want to make it a baby Triumph.
The motor seems to fit the frame fairly well but the Sturmey Archer 3 speed hub looks way too big for the sprocket to fit onto. I could use some help and advice in the is area. I cut the rubber gasket to get it on the inside of the spokes and it does not fit all the way around the hub. I have considered changing this to a coaster brake hub for the rear, as I have a hub, spokes and a rim but I'm not very experienced with truing wheels. One other problem I have is the gas cap does not want to come off the tank. I think I can get that solved though. I have searched the forum for Sturmey Archer / 3speed etc info and I haven't found much. Any advice/help/etc appreciated. Here are some pics of my mock up.
Thanks
-Ben

NEAT TIMES · #2 (**permalink**) 11-19-2008, 10:59 AM

Ben, Welcome, Looks Good, Keep Us Posted. Thanks For Sharing. Ron

bdavanza · #3 (**permalink**) 11-19-2008, 02:51 PM

Does anyone have any experience with Sturmey Archer hubs and these sprockets?
I also just noticed my pedal is going to hit the crankcase on the left side.

**Bikeguy Joe** · #4 (**permalink**) 11-19-2008, 06:45 PM

Yes- they are too large for practical use. I would throw a coaster wheel on there.

bdavanza · #5 (**permalink**) 11-19-2008, 07:04 PM

Thanks for the input, The coaster brake will reduce some of the cables, levers, etc. and allow me to save the 3 speed in case I want to restore this bike.
-Ben

**fairracing31** · #6 (**permalink**) 11-20-2008, 01:33 PM

Welcome to the forum

bdavanza · #7 (**permalink**) 11-20-2008, 01:37 PM

With regards to my crank arms, they are the 3 piece type that clamp around the shaft. They are aluminum. Do you think it can be bent, in a dogleg fashion, to clear the motor, or do you think there are off set crank arms available for this type of bike?
-Ben

bobmcmillen11 · #8 (**permalink**) 11-20-2008, 02:20 PM

Rather than bend or buy new crankarms, I would try to find a longer spindle. Cottered cranksets aren't very popular at the moment, but a real bike shop should have a good assortment of them. Should be dirt cheap. You could also make one out of round stock, and replace the loose balls and cups with roller bearings.

bdavanza · #9 (**permalink**) 11-20-2008, 03:06 PM

Thanks Bob, I will be raiding my friend's bicycle parts pile this weekend.

**2door** · #10 (**permalink**) 11-20-2008, 04:27 PM

A couple of things: 1st, I'd love to have a Triumph decal like that one on your tank. That's too cool.
I tried to find Sturmey Archer parts a couple of years ago and found plenty in England. There are collectors of those old 3 speed hubs but are willing to part with them but they're proud of them so expect to pay top dollar. I agree with the idea to replace the rear wheel, save your original, and find a good coaster brake hub.
I've not had to deal with the extended crank arms so I'd listen to the advice from the guys who have on that point.
It is a good looking bike, thanks for sharing and welcome to the forum. Don't hesitate to ask all the questions you want. We're all here to help and have fun.
Tom