Help ID a odd Raleigh 6 speed maybe 9

[gotavan]

I was given a few bikes yesterday and this one is a little different, it is a six speed. It has a 3 speed hub with a 3 cog derailler.Maybe it's a nine speed . It's a Raleigh Superbe, nice leather brooks saddle, and a dynohub light system. Anyone know something about this bike?

thanks for any help

 

[Anonymous]

Im not into Townie bikes,but I really like that one for its uniqueness!

Nice find!

 

[C.S.]

3x3=9 gears.
Ask Sheldon Brown. Not in person, he is in bicycle heaven, but someone keeps his site alive.
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/dynohubs.html
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/sturmey-archer.html
I think the tiny chain going into the rear axle needs some lubrication, it looks a bit crooked.
Very nice looking bike, and worth every penny you have to spend to keep it on the road.

 

[chris667]

That is a Cyclo 3 speed converter block. Unusual to find one on a Superbe, they were really designed for touring bikes.
Sheldon Brown probably has an article on them.
That bike isn't as old as you'd believe it is, my guess is 1970s. What's the date stamp on the hub?

 

[icyuod2]

i see alot of these old raleigh's in canada.(with the 3x3) chris667 was correct, its a 70's bike for sure.