Vintage Raleigh Bike

[Davidhummer99]

I've found this old bike while doing a clear out I was wondering if anyone knows anything more than I do as I'm only aware it's an old Raleigh Bike.
Many thanks
David

 

[raleighnut]

Well it's a Worksop frame so likely to be Reynolds 531

 

[midlife]

The 3 in the frame number is 1983 year of manufacture. Competition 12? Would have to check the 1983 brochures.

 

[Cycleops]

Would need a lot of work and money to bring it back into rideable condition. Check the seat post and stem aren’t stuck otherwise it could mean mission impossible. Assuming of course you want to restore it.

to the forum.

 

[Paulus]

It could well be Gran sport 12 from what is left of the colour. It should of had chrome forks, which may of been replaced at some point or painted in the blue colour as in your pics.
http://www.jordan-maynard.org/wp-co...aleigh-catalogue-1983-Racers-V-CC-Library.pdf

 

[T4tomo]

soooo much rust on that its barely worth it unless it has sentimental value

 

[Smokin Joe]

soooo much rust on that its barely worth it unless it has sentimental value

Not to mention what will probably be lurking inside the tubes.

 

[raleighnut]

I'd say it was just surface rust.

 

[Hover Fly]

The forks remind me of some Peugeot’s, the colour and flashes of orange.

 

[SkipdiverJohn]

Well it's a Worksop frame so likely to be Reynolds 531

Well, it's a Worksop style frame number but it will have actually been made in Nottingham, in the lighweight facility rather than on the mass market gas pipe frame production line.
If you look carefully at where the rear mudguard is attached, there appears to be a Reynolds tubing sticker.
I agree it is likely to be a 531 frame as 501 only appeared in 1983. It's potentially a good ride if a bit of effort is put into getting the rust off and giving it a coat of paint. Neglected 531 bikes make ideal low-profile hacks if given a mediocre looking paint job with no decals applied after. They ride well but don't look attractive to thieves.