New Project

hi there,

i am looking for some advice/assistance on a new build. i am looking at buying a Raleigh frame from around the 1980's.

i would like some advice on which parts work best with these types of projects. would i be able to use 'modern' parts or is it best keeping them vintage?

look forward to your comments.

thanks

Rear axle spacing for an '80s frame will be 126 mm, which will take wheels of the period up to 7 speed block, not the more recent 8 speed through to 11 speed cassettes, which fit on 130mm wheels. If you want to build a fixed bike, you would be better off looking for a frame with 120mm rear spacing and either horizontal dropouts or track ends.

If you want to fit mudguards and/or a rack, it's best to get a frame with the appropriate brazings to attach them properly.

The fork header will probably be 1 inch threaded, which pushes you down the route of fitting a quill stem and bars to suit, unless you fit a converter for a more modern stem. Quill stems are perfectly good though.

The bottom bracket should hopefully be standard English threading, same as used now, so no worries there (Raleigh used to use a peculiar threading all their own, apparently, but I think by the '80s they'd seen the light and fallen in line with everyone else in the civilised world).

Brazings (if present) for [brake] ignore 'brake' I meant 'gear' levers will be standard fit.

Frame angles and dimensions from the '80s won't be anything outlandish but of course you must make sure they suit YOU. I have a friend who has the only 531 frame I've ever known to rust badly - it was a Raleigh - make sure any Raleigh you look at seems to be in good condition.

Are you planning to build a fixed or a single speed or a geared bike?

Whether you want modern or period parts depends on your preference. I have just rebuilt a frame of mine but modernised it so that it still looks slightly 'retro' but has the benefits of more recent equipment. Some people are passionate about building a bike that is faithful to a particular era. Any approach is valid if it works for you.

Does that help? Or, given your forum name, am I on Candid Camera?

Youv'e been Framed!!!!

no really appreciate your response. i am looking to ride fixed and i am open to suggestions on all parts inc frame. i have seen many different types of frames, just this raleigh looked good value but i may reconsider after your post.

saw a bob jackson frame also but unsure on their history. any recommendations on a frame dick?

thanks again

Rear axle spacing for an '80s frame will be 126 mm, which will take wheels of the period up to 7 speed block, not the more recent 8 speed through to 11 speed cassettes, which fit on 130mm wheels. If you want to build a fixed bike, you would be better off looking for a frame with 120mm rear spacing and either horizontal dropouts or track ends.
Or get 6mm worth of spacers to fit between the cones on the axle and the frame.

Brazings (if present) for brake levers will be standard fit.
You will most likely have to drill the rear of the fork to accept a recessed nut on a modern calliper.

Also be weary that the frame was probably designed for 27" wheels and you will probably go for a nice new set of slightly smaller 700c wheels, therefore you'll need to make sure the brake calliper arms can reach the new rims...

Make sure you have all the required tools to do this. Set aside money to buy a decent chainwhip and lockring tools for the future. Also invest in good tools.

A few useful threads to get you going:
http://www.londonfgss.com/newpostinthread3372.html
http://www.londonfgss.com/thread4716.html?highlight=toolbox

Yes! Hit my daily '1 useful post' quota for today.

any recommendations on a frame dick?

I'd want a minimum of Reynolds 531 tubing or a respected equivalent. I think the benefits of strength, lightnes and good ride quality are well worth the money. Beyond that, the builder or manufacturer should really be driven by to what use you want to put the frame - you would want a different frame for an ultra-lightweight ultra-fast stripped down bike to a workhorse for commuting come rain or shine - mabye - but it would be easier to herd cats than to get everyone on this forum to agree on this subject, so it's best you do some research and look at a lot of frames, read a lot of advice and preferably try some with different geometries before deciding. Try a fit calculator also for a bit of guidance on frame sizing.
http://www.competitivecyclist.com/za/CCY?PAGE=FIT_CALCULATOR_INTRO

thanks guys for your help. so the research and hunting begins! i will try and keep you posted on what i decided on.

cheers!!!