Originally Posted by
jimmuller
Auchen, that's a lovely specimen. How much of that is original? Not the RD, but the crank? Pedals? As I recall from seeing a catalog somewhere, they were equipped rather differently from most bikes back then, especially a 531 frame. Randonneur handlebar, "sport" gearing (which meant 38-100 inches), rattrap-style pedals w/clips+straps (as I recall), Simplex derailleurs. A nice bike not set up for racing but not your average everybody-needs-a-bike bike.
Thanks Jim - The bike is original, except for the Suntour Vx derailleur, a Falcon 5-speed FW, and Sylvan pedals.
The crank is the original BSA-threaded Nervar. I surmise Raleigh used what was available vs the SL 93.
It's funny that this thread popped up - I had mine out earlier today, and was again impressed with the ride and how very quick it is. IMHO, these are truly wonderful bikes and sleepers on the market in many cases. Their very rarity had ensured that only the cognoscenti seek them out.