Topless68

I've been on the hunt for a classic bike to repair, and use. I've found a 1976/7 Grand Prix (silver) in "ok" shape, and a mid-80s Super Grand Prix (i think, based on the decals) in unknown shape, but for cheaper. From the single picture in the ad, i can tell the paint is faded out to pink, needs bar tape, says new tires, brakes and shifting work well. Just wanted to get some insight into the better choice - foundationally.
The 70s GP has some paint issues, and needs new tires. What are some differences/improvements they made between the late 70s GP and the 80s SGP?

Trying to arrange an in-person visit to take a look at them, but any info you Gurus can provide is greatly appreciated. Sorry, I can't post pics yet....

cudak888 

Have a link to an off-site gallery?

The SGP basically has an edge by virtue of a 24TPI bottom bracket and square taper spindle, along with Suntour derailers that won't be falling off like the plastic Simplex Prestige of an original Grand Prix.

Granted, if an original GP has been partially upgraded with better bits than the SGP stock bits, it might be the better of the two.

-Kurt

Topless68

I tried a link, but i haven't reached my 10 posts yet, so no dice....i should be there in the next couple of posts...


I believe both bikes have OEM components. I've requested better pics from both sellers, to no avail....i'm met with a "come take a look" response...These are what I could get from the ads.

WGB 

Topless68 You can do 5 posts per day until you have 10 then post photos, you have 3 more you can do today towards your total. How about any further info such as Canadian made or UK? Anything you else you can provide from the photos you can see?

philbob57

The mid-'80s version may be from Raleigh-USA and may be better steel that the hi-ten you'll get in the Nottingham GP. Which fits better?

nlerner

The SGPs I’ve seen came with alloy 700c wheels, as opposed to the 27” steel wheels on the GP. Stock was also SunTour barcon shifters. All excellent upgrades.

Topless68

I'm finally able to post something. I wasn't able to get to these bikes yesterday. I'm trying to narrow down what the Red bike actually is...
the silver GP is listed at $150 CDN, and the red "whateveritis" is listed at $85. Any help identifying the red one is greatly appreciated.

76/77 GP 1

76/77 GP 2

76/77 GP 3

76/77 GP 4

80s SGP ?

BFisher

The stem on the silver bike is dangerously high. If the quill was tightened in that position there could be risk of cracks forming in the threaded portion of the fork steerer tube. Just something to be mindful of.

You have two different size frames there, so if buying for yourself to ride, try to choose the best fit.

cudak888 

Red bike is something from the '83-86 Raleigh USA lineup and is fairly low-end, but in some ways comparable to the Grand Prix - with exception to those cheap sidepulls.

The SGP, on the other hand, is obviously in the hands of someone who doesn't know WTF they're doing - especially with the stem sitting half out of the frame with the wedge probably just below the headset nut. Can't tell whether the stem is bent or whether it's just so far up that it's able to kink forward. I also see someone shoved some steel rims on it, which is a definite thumbs down.

Either price is aspirational for the pile of dog dung you're getting. Hard pass on both.

Also, figure out what frame size you need.

-Kurt