~ robin hood ~

05 July 2011
this is ari’s writing about his bike, the Robin Hood, that he got a few days ago.
Robin Hood

I’ve been thinking about buying the Robin Egg Blue - 1960’s Raleigh Robin Hood bicycle from Vanguard for months. It’s in near mint condition, complete with an original metal head badge and decals. A three-speed Sturmey-Archer on a 50.5cm frame with a Honey Flyer Brooks saddle and custom beige leather grips. To me, it’s a true British classic 3-speed that captures the imagination.

Robin Hood
Robin Hood
Robin Hood
Robin Hood
Robin Hood
Robin Hood
Robin Hood

Most importantly, the fact that the Robin Hood is still in its original configuration makes it even better. Yes, I like my classics to be unmodified and as true to their original design as possible.

The Robin Hood has a different riding style from my Finch. It is taller and longer than the Finch and has more common measurements for its parts. Its sturdy frame provides a much more up-right ride and higher vantage point. It glides very well too. The Finch, on the other hand, because of it’s frame geometry and size, is fast, reactive, extremely maneuverable and can make tight corners, but not so comfortable for longer rides.

Now that I’ve actually bought the Robin Hood, we’ve attached the child seat to it. With Aina on board, the Robin Hood feels a lot more stable than the Finch. After a few rides, I’ve become very accustomed to riding with Aina behind me and can maneuver the bike with ease. This way, Thalia and I can share the load when we’re traveling for longer distances. Also, since the Robin Hood has a standard 1” seat post, we have also attached the trailgator to it and had Aina ride on her beloved Baby Thyme with us everywhere. I just hope the tiny wheels on the Baby Thyme can take the milage we’re clocking on a weekly basis.

trying out the trail-gator
trying out the trail-gator