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1983 Raleigh Reynolds 531 handbuilt lightweight racing / touring bike
The frame number (WH3000172) indicates that the frame was built at the TI-Raleigh Lightweight Unit in Nottingham, which succeeded the Worksop Carlton unit when it was closed in 1981. The Lightweight Unit produced high quality, craftsman-made, off-the-peg bikes/frames that were a step above Raleigh’s mass-produced bikes. This one has been repainted at some point, but is probably a Gran Course or Gran Sport model. The Prugnat lugs are lovely, and being made from Reynolds 531 tubing it is light for the period. The frame number indicates that it was built in June 1983.
The frame looks to have been repainted metallic green in the 90s, fitted with some later Raleigh decals, and built up with some good quality later parts. I think at this point it must have had the fittings for a rear centre-pull brake added to the frame.The lightweight Reynolds 531 butted steel tubing means it would make an ideal commuting or touring bike as it is. Alternatively, it could be refurbished and rebuilt into a classic “Eroica” type bike. It is in great condition, with lovely chrome, and is entirely useable as it is, though the tyres are quite old and would probably be best replaced. It is a smooth and responsive ride.Size:Top tube 56cmSeat tube 56cmCurrent stepover height is around 81cm
Frame: Raleigh special lightweight unit, Reynolds 531 butted tubing, Prugnat lugs, head tube drilled for three-rivet metal Raleigh badge, rear brake bridge recessed for allen key brake bolts, mounting points for centre pull brakes on rear stays probably added later, chromed dropouts and chainstay
Fork: sloping crown Reynolds 531, chrome
Dropouts: Allez branded, maybe Gipiemme
Handlebars: GB “map of Britain”
Stem: 80mm SR Custom
Headset: Stronglight
Brake calipers: Shimano SLR Exage
Front brake caliper: Shimano SLR
Rear brake: Shimano centre-pull
Saddle: San Marco
Seatpost: fluted 27.2mm Kalloy
Shifters: Shimano 105 Golden Arrow
Front derailleur: Shimano 105
Rear derailleur: Shimano Deore MT62
Right crank: 170mm Stronglight 80, 52/36 chainrings
Left crank: 170mm SR Custom
Chain: D.I.D. L
Bottom bracket: SR Sakae
Pedals: Ofmega quill
Toeclips: rusty unbranded, Large
Front wheel: Ofmega hub, unbranded box section rim (maybe Mavic)
Rear wheel: Sachs hub, Mavic MA3 rim
Tyres: Specialized Tri-Sport 700 x 26
Collection only from London SE16 2BL
Current Price: £300.00
This Raleigh Reynolds 531 Gran Sport Course Road Racing Touring Handbuilt Carlton Vtg may be available on ebay