Query: Front derailleur upgrade for vintage Raleigh
12-12-19, 08:20 AM
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Query: Front derailleur upgrade for vintage Raleigh
I am restoring a vintage Raleigh Super Grand Prix to original spec, and upgrading a second RSGP to an RX100 (52-42) crankset, 8-speed HG (11-30) cassette, and 8-speed indexed barcon shifters (already purchased). Original bottom bracket spindle is 127 mm. For the latter upgrade: I am considering an Acera RD M360 rear derailleur; and Claris 2400 FD (double). However, I read a comment somewhere that this Claris front derailleur will only work for axle width < 110 mm (much shorter than mine). If the Claris FD is 'no go', can anyone recommend something else (FD / RD) to work well with this set-up?
12-12-19, 11:06 AM
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I have two Raleigh Super Courses, a '73 and a '78. Both are riding great with Suntour VGT Luxe in back and Suntour Cyclone II up front. The Suntours were low priced swap meet finds, and are both shifted with Suntour ratcheting bar cons. No brainer, easy peasy.
The '73 with Megarange 34t six speed and Sugino Triple. Claw hanger mounted RD.
The '78 with Megarange 34t six speed and Sakae SR Apex double. Direct mount RD.
The '73 with Megarange 34t six speed and Sugino Triple. Claw hanger mounted RD.
The '78 with Megarange 34t six speed and Sakae SR Apex double. Direct mount RD.
12-12-19, 01:16 PM
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I am restoring a vintage Raleigh Super Grand Prix to original spec, and upgrading a second RSGP to an RX100 (52-42) crankset, 8-speed HG (11-30) cassette, and 8-speed indexed barcon shifters (already purchased). Original bottom bracket spindle is 127 mm. For the latter upgrade: I am considering an Acera RD M360 rear derailleur; and Claris 2400 FD (double). However, I read a comment somewhere that this Claris front derailleur will only work for axle width < 110 mm (much shorter than mine). If the Claris FD is 'no go', can anyone recommend something else (FD / RD) to work well with this set-up?
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Tom Reingold, tom@noglider.com
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Blogs: The Experienced Cyclist; noglider's ride blog
“When man invented the bicycle he reached the peak of his attainments.” — Elizabeth West, US author
Please email me rather than PM'ing me. Thanks.
12-12-19, 09:14 PM
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I'd be careful of modern triple style front derailleurs. They're meant to work with specific chainring sizes- the sculpting on the inner plate will totally fight you if you're not using the products out of the intended system.
I used to think FDs were the most simple component... after my experience with the Dura Ace 7803- I learned a lot.
I used to think FDs were the most simple component... after my experience with the Dura Ace 7803- I learned a lot.
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12-13-19, 02:00 PM
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At least if the shifters are Shimano, the front will be friction. I can’t speak to the Claris FD question specifically, but finding an old Suntour or 600 series FD that will work shouldn’t be too hard. What FD was it using previously with the 127mm spindle?
12-30-19, 03:31 AM
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Thanks for all the suggestions. The new shifters are indeed Shimano (8-speed SIS), friction on the front; and the original FD was a Raleigh-branded Suntour (which I've swapped to yet another bike). I was planning to 'modernise' the whole drive train of this 2nd RSGP, but it seems that an old Suntour FD in good condition will do the trick. (The RX100 crankset that I have put on the bike was a one-off purchase -- I'm sure I could find the matching RX100 FD, but I'm not sure if it would work on this frame.)
