Bicyclesarefun

Hi everyone!

Hope all is well. I'm doing well riding, again, my Raleigh I bought used at a bike shop about 10 years ago. I've been curious to learn what model it is, but have had little luck looking on the internet. I've visited Sheldon Brown's Raleigh Retro site and some others that have listed some info based on serial number and it's location on the bike. But the serial number sequence located beneath the bottom bracket doesn't quite match any I've found on any reference sites. It's serial is N 2 H 1 4 4 1. Here are some images. Thanks in advance for the help.

jacksbike

Well, this is a stumper, but I will throw in my thoughts. I think that it is a Raleigh made in Japan for them, from the early 80's. I base this thought on the head tube decal, lugs, and the use of mostly Shimano components. The thing is, the best model that I remember them making was the Grand Sport, which came in red or blue. This is a model above that one, but one that I was not aware existed. I do not believe that it is an English Raleigh. Best I can come up with.

browngw 

N 2 would have meant Nottingham 1982 in the old days. This does appear Japanese and the drop-outs are Shimano for sure.

Bicyclesarefun

Thanks Jakesbike and Browngw for sharing. Being that Japan is closer than England to here in Hawaii sounds plausible to have a Raleigh made there. Also I notice the head tube badge doesn't list a name of origin like Nottingham, instead my head badge has slashes in place of a name, possible because they're ashamed to say made in Japan? All Shimano group set seems another hint it came from Japan. I'm just surprised Japan made Raleigh bikes too. Thanks again all.

browngw 

I was so engrossed in trying to put together the heritage, I forgot to tell you what a nice looking bike it is. Its a sharp looking, well built bike that should serve you well.

Bicyclesarefun

I feel fortunate to have found it for sale used at the lbs about 10 years ago for $100. I wasn't a fan of road bikes then, mostly mountain, BMX, but do enjoy touring with my hybrid folder bike Friday. I was attracted by the looks to this bike, then saw it had quality, albeit dated, group set. It is maybe just one size too big for me, but the ride is comfortable enough if not aggressive, which as a newbie to roadiville I accepted as norm. Thanks again for the compliment, but I must admit the bike was relegated to outside, but covered storage, when I had one bike too many in the garage. Over the years the cover deteriorated and she gather some rust and I just notice the bb leaking a medium brown viscous material. I plan to overhaul myself soon. Even though I was not much interested in such road bikes then, I regret not keeping her in as great a shape as the previous owner had. But I'm sure I'll find tips on his site to help me regain the polish of this Japanese Raleigh.