Ride Comparison Review: Schwinn Traveler vs Raleigh Model 35 Sports

This week had a few nice, warm and dry days for riding, which meant getting out bikes that have not been ridden yet this season. Such was the case for one of my Raleigh three speeds and one of my Schwinn three speeds.

 

Starting Point

Both bikes have been sitting since last season. Both needed air in the tires and each got a little oil in the hubs. Neither bike showed any signs of failure from sitting for the winter. With air, oil, and a dusting, both were ready to go - a virtue of vintage three speed bikes.

The plain and solid Raleigh Model 35

An Old-School Raleigh

The first bike is a WWII era (or just before the war) Raleigh Model 35. This is a basic bike - no chain guard, quadrant shifter, painted and chromed steel throughout. Despite its age, because this bike is so basic, it's also relatively light. 

 

Lights, bell, and bag are aftermarket additions.

The rider sits upright and the handling is well-balanced. The brakes work reasonably well in dry conditions. The quadrant shifter is a little slower and more deliberate to operate than a handlebar shifter. 

 

A classic Raleigh Industries frame pump.

The bike overall feels very much like an upright, pre-war three speed should feel: comfortable, not terribly fast, and with intuitive handling. There are no nasty surprises climbing or turning with this bike. 

 

 

 

Sharp mid-century American styling with the Schwinn Traveler

A Classic Post-War Schwinn

Another rider this week was a very nice 1964 Schwinn Traveler. The welded frame is heavier than the Raleigh brazed frame, though neither frame is truly "light". The wheels are also a bit heavier, being S5 rims versus Dunlop endrick rims. The brakes are a little quicker-stopping and lighter than the Raleigh, being Weinmann 810s. The frame has a longer and larger feel than the Raleigh. The ride is somewhat less upright, having a shorter stem and shorter bars than the older Raleigh.

The classic Schwinn cross seal of quality.

The Schwinn has a heavier and more solid feel while riding. You get the impression the Schwinn was built first and foremost for durability. The handling is a little more floppier than the Raleigh. The low-speed stability is better on the Schwinn, though the Raleigh's handling is a bit tighter and more responsive. The Schwinn gives a more distinct impression of momentum once you are up to speed. The Raleigh climbs and accelerates better from a stop. 

 

 The Bottom Line

• Weight, handling and acceleration go to the Raleigh.
• Durability, low speed stability, and momentum once up to speed go to the Schwinn.
• The brakes are a bit better on the Schwinn.
• The tire choices are better on the Raleigh.
  
• Ease of maintenance is even - both are reliable and low-maintenance.
• The Raleigh has the more traditional pre-war, British look.
• The Schwinn has a the flashier post-war, American look.
• Both bikes are very well-made.
  
• Either bike would make an excellent rider if you enjoy three speeds.
• Neither bike is "better" - it boils down to personal preference.
• You'll have fun with either one - there are no losers here.