Originally Posted by
tiger1964
That reinforces my suspicions. I had hoped someone with resources like old catalogs, etc., might show exactly what a Gran Sport was.
Vintage Raleigh bicycle catalogs are on the web, but as someone who as worked in bicycle manufacturing, keep in mind that catalog spec isn't written in stone. Product shortages, shipping delays, price increases, etc. can all lead to deviations from catalog spec before the bike even leaves the factory. Bike-boom era bikes such as yours are particularly subject to such substitutions.
Interesting guess; going from 27" to 700C might provide for 'improved' tire clearances. I do have two wheels here with 700x30's I could test fit.
Yes, but you may need to change to longer reach brake calipers.
Reynolds decals mention 531 Butted frame tubes, and also 531 decals on forks. Would Raleigh do main tubes and forks but not rear triangle?
Possible, but not likely.