Raleigh Brass Bicycle Bell

Raleigh's brass bicycle bell is a notable improvement upon the ones that adorn the handlebars of every new bike sold here in Blighty... or possibly rattle around inside the box. Boasting a superior strap and sharper 'ping' its discrete profile complements period style fixers and tourers very nicely.

However, those seeking absolute authenticity should look to the 45mm models and in practical terms, a well-timed yell is more effective-especially in the on city streets, well it is for me.

Perhaps rather cynically, I presumed the shiny dome was aluminium treated to a colour lacquer but Raleigh were quick to assure me it is the real McCoy, so will need a periodic buff from your microfibre cloth or less glamorous rag. The rubberised watchstrap bracket employs a clear shim for narrower handlebar diameters but even the Univega's beefy WTB drops couldn't give it indigestion. After much deliberation, I shipped ours inside the drops, just above the Ultegra ban con, nipping the Phillips screw tight with a few turns of my trusty multi-tool. A quick test flick produced a much richer sound than the aluminium models we've come to know and in some cases loathe but not a patch on those associated with Queen's 'Bicycle Race'.

Strumming proved second nature given a few outings and with the notable exception of a Miss Marple figure, most people responded positively to its warm note, swiftly followed by polite greeting when meandering through quiet country lanes, or tinkling along shared use paths. Alas, its appeal wasn't universal amongst the canine community and on one occasion I found myself on the big ring, persued by an unusually determined Labrador. Somewhat predictably, it became little more than handlebar decoration against the backdrop of pneumatic drill, sirens and other noise pollution common to sub/urban journeys.

Verdict

Nice handlebar decoration that performed better than I had expected but a well-timed greeting is free and weighs nothing