billthecat

I recently purchased a used Raleigh Grand Prix from a local bike guy. It's in pretty nice shape, rides pretty well and, overall, I think I got a decent deal. We are replacing the brake pads with new as the rubber was quite dried out and hardened from age. Otherwise, what upgrades to this bicycle are worthwhile for an occasional rider around town. We're not talking racing here, just basic bike riding ... my normal rides are starting at 5 miles round trip but I plan to expand as I get back into riding.

This one doesn't have the brake extension levers ... I know they are a point of contention among many ... but I think I would have liked having them there if anyone knows where to pick up vintage replacements. Otherwise, what to upgrade: rims? tires?

Thanks!

Kabuki12

If your bike is anything like the one I have(1971) , I would replace the steel wheels with alloy , maybe 700c if you have some adjustment on the brake pads to lower a bit. If it is like mine it has Wienman Centerpull that may be branded Raleigh . Also the handlebars if they are steel . Be careful as the diameter of the bar where it fits with the stem can be different from others. A bike co-op can be a good source for vintage parts. The only thing you will notice as your rides get longer is the weight of the bike , so any steel that can be replaced with alloy is good. Other than that, they are fine riding bikes for a more entry level machine. They are strong and built well , you should get many miles of use out of it. Another consideration is saddle selection . If you are just getting into cycling, a sore fanny is inevitable , but can be reduced by finding the right saddle...for you! It may take some searching but well worth the effort. Start with the saddle parallel to the top tube and go from there . I am hoping you selected a bike that has a center to center seat tube measurement that is about ten inches small than your inseam. Too tall of a bike is not so good as when you come to a stop and dismount there could be man trouble!

billthecat

That is some great information and I thank you for that!

It was also suggested by the guy who sold me the bike that if I really get into riding it, the wheels should be the first upgrade. He's one of those who has a bike shop to fund his bicycling habit, not to get rich and retire young!

It does have the centerpull brakes which I think will be fine after we upgrade the brake pads and make sure they are adjusted properly. I will also take your seat suggestions to heart (or to butt!) ... thanks for that.

big chainring 

I put an old set of tubular wheels with fat cyclocross tires on my Grand Prix. And some fenders, and a cool Simplex chain guard. The rest is original equipment. Its a great rider.

billthecat

love it!

that chainguard is way cool. are those vintage raleigh fenders or something newer that just fit?

branko_76 

Without seeing the bike and not knowing if its been overhaulled, it's very hard to give solid advice. During the lockdown last March, I overhaulled a 1974 Raleigh Grand Prix using all of the stock components. The only "upgrades" were Kool-Stop brake pads and Continental Ultra-Sport tires. It rides, shifts and brakes very well...

billthecat

can't do any pictures right now as it's back at the shop for some more "overhaul" ... new tubes, new cables, having new brake pads done now along with adjusting the new cables as the stretched a little bit after riding. otherwise, it's pretty stock but in really good shape.

when i retrieve from the shop tomorrow, i'll happily post some pictures.

i am really enjoying the bicycle though ... thanks for any and all input.

bwilli88 

I was given my 74 Grand prix from a High School friend, It has been through a series of upgrades and downgrades.
As I got it

First upgrade, some random RD & FD from a Local Co-op, Black cork bar tape


Found a nicer and much lighter crankset.

The way I really like it, Shimano 105 8 speed with 700c wheels


As it is right now as a single speed. Going back to the 8 speed when I get back.

This is a great frame and it makes a nice riding bike.

branko_76 

They're great bikes, I've owned and overhaulled many 1970's Grand Prix's. Speaking of "overhalling", there is much more to it than what you are having done.

Take a look at the following link, there are several threads attached to it that should give you some idea of what a bike over 40 years old needs...

https://www.bikeforums.net/classic-v...-rehabbed.html

Unca_Sam

You keep playing around with it but you haven't corrected the bent fork?

ryansu

One of my early rebuilds was a Grand PRix similar to bwilli88 example This may be the bike that drove me buy a decent cotter pin tool