Last Updated on February 18, 2023
My Claud Butler Dalesman is the first bike I ever truly loved.
I’ve been a saddle-fan since I was very young, and I’ve enjoyed every bike I’ve ever owned (or restored) but this Claud Butler Dalesman is the first bike that truly won my heart. I bought this Dalesman from The Bike Doctor in Ipswich for what I considered to be a very reasonable price, considering that The Bike Doctor appeared to have restored the bike and checked / fixed it mechanically.
Before becoming the new custodian of this lovely old Claud Butler I had never ridden a ‘proper’ road bike, preferring (like all kids who grew up in the late 80s / early 90s) rough and tumble mountain bikes. After a few years break from regular cycling I got back into cycling in a big way and committed to a 100 mile charity ride. When ‘training’ for this ride it became clear that if I attempted to cycle 100 miles on my current mountain bike my knees, hips and thighs would likely explode. The test ride was a total revelation, apart from anything else I was now able to cycle up hills!
I now cycle to work every day, and am fairly sure this Dalesman will be a gateway drug leading to a road bike / racer, or at least it will when I get some cash together. My brother in law recently had his Claud Butler Explorer stolen so I thought I ought to make a note somewhere of the serial number of my own bike, and make a photographic record, just in case, so this blog seemed like as good a place as any to do just that.
Nice!
This is a lovely bike! I am currently thinking of buying one from 1983 with Reynolds 531st tubing that uses standard centre or sidepull brakes (not cantilevers). It was originally made for 27″ wheels, so I am hoping the clearance would be good for 28″/700c wheels.
Could I ask if the wheels here are 27″ or 28″/700c?
Also, what the tyre width is of your tyres – 32mm or 35mm?
Basically, I would really like to understand what the maximum tyre width is on this model for a 28″/700c wheel plus mudguards.
Would be grateful for your help!
Hey Mark, the wheels on this bike were 26″ I think. I found that out after a very frustrating day trying to fit some 700C Marathon Plus tryes on the wheels!
Hey Andrew, thanks for your nice reply! I can imagine your situation with the wheels to be rather challenging : )
Also, I had a look further on your site and really enjoyed your music! Listened to three songs linked to youtube. You mentioned liking My Bloody Valentine. As a teen, I was a bit of a fan of bands like MBV and -especially- Cocteau Twins, so I could relate very well.
That’s pretty much the mix I’m going for, with a sprinkling of Jesus and Mary Chain and black metal!