Skip, original rubber roadbed is coveted and most times hoarded by AF S gauge collectors (me). There are several versions out there so pick one and try to focus on that. There is black small tie, black large tie, grey with large grey ties and grey with a darker grey large tie. I don't like the grey ties as they soil and don't clean up well. The black small tie is my favorite but also the hardest to find. So your best choice would probably be the black large tie. When purchasing make sure it is still very flexible and check for holes at the thin areas where the track mounts. For cleaning I use a small hand brush (fingernail) with handle and 409 or similar cleaner. Soak, then scrub. Once clean I give them a good hosing down with armor all and set them out flat to dry. They will come up like new. The road bed looks great and actually quiets down your trains when installed properly. Expect to pay anywhere from $2 apiece to $4 apiece on average, sometimes higher if the auction site gets heated.. Good luck in your search.
Lover of all things Gilbert, truly a man ahead of his time.
Skip,
I think Ray is correct eBay is a good option if you are looking for old original AF roadbed.
Another option is Johnson reproduction Roadbed. I just bought a case of their 54" curve pieces.
I know you can find some of this at PortLine Hobbies and Dave's Twacks & Twains, and Time Machine Hobby. You can find contact info doing Google search.
There are probably more LHS that have this stuff available,
Aflyer
Hi Skip, you can get some at train shows but your best bet is on ebay. Good luck.
Ray
Bayville, NJ
Life is what happens to youWhile you're busy making other plans - John Lennon
What's my options and availability for AF roadbed??
Thanks,
Skip
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