RM1

[Basket case]

Sorry folks, not a microcar but I need help and this is my starting point as I'm looking for info.
I swapped a bottle of Sambucca for 'an old moped' last week. Turns out it is a Raleigh RM1 from Nov 1958, which means it is a super early one as they were launched just the month before.
It has a Strumley Archer engine. Very original but it has been brush painted but that has perserved it. It's a lovely shade of battleship grey.
It almost runs, but the spark is weak so I guess I need a new coil in the stator.

Anybody got any idea where I can find spares? The magneto is Lucas. Are there any Lucas specialists?

I've had a good look on the web but can't find any clubs / spares etc.

[richard]

well this is obviously the moped - love your spelling of Strumley ! Archer 

and this is the link to enthusiasts for all that type - they always used to have a Raleigh moped specialist i am sure they still will have
http://www.thebuzzingclub.co.uk/

but why did you not post in OFF TOPIC  

[Basket case]

Hi Richard,
Thanks so much. I was so impressed I could spell 'Sambucca' that I forgot about checking everything else. How do you spell Strumley Archer in English? Need to have a look at the engine cover tomorrow! Meantime, I'll spell it the Scottish way. 
It's a charming little moped that needs brought back to its former glory.  Planning to take it round the Moidart Peninsular in May on a run which coincides with teh Pre'65 trial at Kinlochleven - a great weekend away.
Thanks for your help.
Ali

[richard]

STURMEY - ARCHER  have fun with it

[Basket case]

the! Honestly, teh is not the Scottish way.

I will write future posts in Off Topic.
New(ish) to this site.
Thanks.

[richard]

just found this on the www it's by andrew pattle of NACC

http://www.users.globalnet.co.uk/~pattle/nacc/arc0238.htm

http://www.users.globalnet.co.uk/~pattle/nacc/arc0546.htm

this last link refers to a very early , was it 11 58 , crankcase number - what yours ?

[Rob Dobie]

I believe that when the first Raleigh mopeds came out in 1958-9 the front brake worked on the wheel rim like a bicycle, a very basic moped. I remember that a local cycle shop had a new one hanging on his showroom wall  from '59 until well into the 1970's. I could never get it off him. The shop closed down and it disappeared.

[Basket case]

This RM1 has '11 58' stamped on the crankcases which makes me think it is really early - ie only a month into the production run. It doesn't have a clutch so I guess when you come to the traffic lights its a case of using the decompressor to stop the engine!
The front brake is a small drum on this bike.
I'll get the ignition and lighting coils rewound but I'm not sure where I'll find engine spares. I'd like to at least fit new rings if not a rebore. Any pointers will be appreciated.
Thanks

[Rob Dobie]

Try this chap on ebay, He could point you in the right direction.

http://stores.ebay.co.uk/raleigh-ace-classic-moped-parts?_rdc=1