Close window
Print details

Raleigh Model 15 De Luxe

Raleigh Model 15 De Luxe

Click Here for Full Screen Image - Click Here to Download Image

Raleigh Model 15 De LuxeRaleigh Model 15 De LuxeRaleigh Model 15 De LuxeRaleigh Model 15 De LuxeRaleigh Model 15 De Luxe
Raleigh Model 15 De LuxeRaleigh Model 15 De LuxeRaleigh Model 15 De LuxeRaleigh Model 15 De LuxeRaleigh Model 15 De Luxe
Lot number 210
Hammer value £3,000
Description Raleigh Model 15 De Luxe
Registration VJ 1324
Year 1929
Colour Black/Yellow
Engine size 248 cc
Chassis No. J16920
Engine No. BSFN522

Introduced in 1925, Raleigh’s Model 15 was powered by a 248cc single-cylinder sidevalve engine driving via a three-speed Sturmey-Archer gearbox. 

In line with most of the range, the De Luxe version of the 15 received a new saddle-style fuel tank for 1928, while the standard version continued with the old flat tank style. The De Luxe’s new fuel reservoir consisted of a pair of separate pannier tanks mounted either side of the upper frame tube, which was concealed beneath a central cover plate. “This is the generally all-round popular Raleigh,” its maker stated, “powerful enough to take a passenger or a decent amount of luggage.”

First registered in Herefordshire in February 1929, this Model 15 De Luxe has been in one family ownership for at least 75 years, the vendor’s father acquiring it from a friend, Tom Rock, before the Second World War.

Lightly restored in 1984 (photographs on file), it remains in highly correct and largely original condition throughout, even retaining its original carbide generator and headlight and a 1935 tax disc in its original metal holder. During the restoration an exact copy of the original (decayed) leather tool box was specially made which is correct even down to the pattern of the stitching. The exhaust and mudguards are also said to be original which is most unusual with bikes of this vintage.

Last taxed, MOTd and on the road in 1991, it should not take much to get it up and running again although the vendor advises that the magneto will need remagnetising. Supplied with an old style V5, a copy of the original owner’s manual, a parts book and many past issues of the Raleigh Owners Club newsletter, it also comes with a new spare tyre.

This wonderful machine is only reluctantly being sold due to the advancing years of the vendor who had planned to donate it to the National Motorcycle Museum in Solihull when he learned that their own example had been destroyed in the disastrous fire of 2003. However, his enthusiasm waned somewhat when they demanded £1,000 in addition to his generous gift…

On the market for the first time in many decades, this vintage machine now requires a rather more gracious new owner who will continue to cherish it in the manner to which it has become accustomed.
 

Close window
Print details