Got around to taking some better pictures of this fine looking machine, today.
This model was near the top of the line in the mid-1970s. Although it lacks what some call 'top end' components I very much of the mind that the whole package hangs together very well to make a very elegant machine indeed. Yes a lot of the parts are pretty much standard Raleigh issue, but there is still that Carlton indiviuduality that shines through in the frame with its Crespera lugs and wrap over seat stays.
This bike hasn't been ridden for while as I need to get a broken spoke fixed on the rear wheel which is slightly out of true. Must do it as I want get back on the saddle of this one.
Ive kept this bike very much as it would have been in 1975, hence shorty mudgaurds and Pifco lamps. Overriding image of this bike is it has lots of chrome, save for the utterly gorgeous Campagnolo Gran Tourismo steel rear mech, the whole bike is standard. The double chainwheel steel affair is a 42/52 set up with a 24-tooth rear sprocket. Brakes are Weinmann 999s CP. Saddle is by Wrights. Wheels have their C nuts in tact and the chrome on the steels rims is unmarked. This is very much how I remember racers in the 1970s, this bike being made in August of the 1975 - the year I left primary school.
Frame size is 22" and the colour finish is a coffee polychomatic with contrasting panels - beautiful!
Enjoy.
Standard graphics for the time
Transmission is the standard Raleigh 3-pin detachable of the time....
The overall set up is a very solid and dependable transmission
A few views of the Gran Tourismo rear mechanism, this is just pure art. It works very well on this bike and dates from about 1970. Its a big and imposing affair!
Some other frame detailing...
Huret double levers are mint.
Race proven...
Tyres are quite thin for 27x1-1/4
Philips stem
