Thorn frame and forks.

[Redswannie]

Hi everyone.
I have just become the owner of a Thorn frame and forks which I believe is a Sherpa model.
The frame number is 800752PR and the forks are stamped 800753PR.
Its matt black in finish and has tapered top, seat and down tubes as well as a welded on Thorn head badge.
Can anyone give me some additional info on what it might be?
Kind regards, Dave.

[leftpoole]

Hello,
Does it have a sticker declaration with type of tubing used? For example 531 or such?
You mention a welded on Head-badge?
Best regards
John

[Redswannie]

Hi John.
Sadly it's got no frame transfer, although I'm guessing it's of a good quality of tubing as the 3 main tubes are tapered.
Yes the headbadge looks like its welded to the head tube, Thorn running vertically with a ring of thorns around it.

[brummie]

As far as I can remember the Sherpas all had a stick on decal for the head tube badge ( it was the budget version of the original derailleur geared Nomad after all )  - Maybe you have a Nomad frame? Post some pics for Identification?

[Redswannie]

Hi Brummie.
Yes will post some pictures tomorrow.
Do you know if any of the older thorn frames ever used tapered seat, top and down tubes?
Regards Dave.

[brummie]

Tapered ( Conical ) Reynolds tubing was used on most the UK made frames with the possible exception of the Commutour model as far as I can remember. The frame serial number under the BB will help ID your frame too.

[Redswannie]

The frame number is 800752PR and the forks are stamped 800753PR.
I've asked SJS cycles and they suggested going on here to get more information.

[Redswannie]

Headbadge image.

[Redswannie]

Frame.

[PH]

The lugged frame dates it, I think all the Taiwanese made models have been welded, so probably not a Sherpa.
It's a shame the headtube badge has been painted over, if you decide to clean it up I think it's stainless steel and will polish up nicely.
In that repainted state, it'll be hard to identify, might be easier from the geometry, the old brochures are in a thread here, maybe measure it up and see what it matches, measurements, lugged and threadless headset, ought to narrow it down.  I'd have a guess at an original Nomad, but a guess is all it is.

[leftpoole]

Hi John.
Sadly it's got no frame transfer, although I'm guessing it's of a good quality of tubing as the 3 main tubes are tapered.
Yes the headbadge looks like its welded to the head tube, Thorn running vertically with a ring of thorns around it.

It is I believe, an early Club Tour .
Whatever you decide to do with it, a good frame resprayer would make the frame look great.
All lugged frames as far as I recollect are from prior to Nomad build when 'in house' building started and used fillet braze.
John

[Redswannie]

Thanks for the information guys.
I also have a pair of low riders for the front forks and a rear carrier with a mudguard fitted to it.
It measures that it takes 26" mountain bike wheels if that's any help.
If I decide to sell it on would anyone be interested in it?
I'm based in Bucks and when covid allows will be up in Gloucester to visit family.

[leftpoole]

I’m sending you a message direct.

[brummie]

It looks like an XTC classic frame to me. Same as mine, which can be found on the members gallery.
http://thorncyclesforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=13704.0

[PH]

It looks like an XTC classic frame to me. Same as mine, which can be found on the members gallery.
http://thorncyclesforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=13704.0

You're right it does and the colour of yours makes me smile.  Hope you've had some pleasant miles on it, must draw some comments.
Would I be right in thinking the XTC's would have had shorter chainstays than the more touring orientated models? Maybe that might confirm it.