Is it worth the effort? To me of course it is!

Some may disagree with the above. Everyone is entitled to their own views.
I recently picked up a very nice original spec (apart from pedals) 21” 1988 Raleigh Routier. It had clearly not been left outside and still had original tyres which stayed inflated. The whole bike will be stripped down and as many original parts as possible will be cleaned and refitted. The frame will be resprayed as a first attempt at a home respray job. Then new decals fitted before the frame is clear lacquered The BB, headset, wheel and hubs will all be fully serviced before refitting. New chain and possibly freewheel, tapes, pedals, cables and housing will then be added to finish the project. Some may say cheap as chips! but I was surprised how sweet the bike rode before purchasing and after freeing seized and dried out chain links, adjusting brakes and resetting the gears . Very pleased with this little bike and a good winter project!

I will keep you informed as it progresses.

Wow, that certainly does look pretty good for it's age. Even better that you find it rides really well. Certainly all the right parts still on it.
That's what really matters these days with the old bikes I find, as long as it puts a smile on your face when you ride it and you get a bit of enjoyment from fettling it, then that's what matters.

Jamie

Thanks Jamie....I do like fettling these old bikes. They all still have something to offer. Often they are just lacking a little lustre!

A well loved and restored bike is always worth the effort regardless of marque. Good looking bike!

Thanks....your comments are appreciated took it for a spin on my usual 20 mile coast ride this morning, sailed through a heavy rainstorm, a good excuse for a wash, clean and dry off before the starting the frame strip. Forgot just how rain affects these old ‘suicide brake levers’ think well in advance and apply gently allowing for a long stopping distance, drop leaver works better, but all part of the retro ride. The rims are salvageable good old ‘Raleigh made in England’ rims. Tyres are on order and should arrive this week. It is almost a shame to discard the original Raleigh tyres, clearly been on 30 years, but one is splitting so replacement is necessary.

Always worth it. I did a europa.

Thanks for the above. I enjoyed your thread on the Gran Sport even if I did get lost with some of the banter.

Now that the mystery frame is ready to be resprayed it is time to press on with this project.

Stripped a bit more off frame today. Left remaining parts on as my grandchildren have said they want to get involved with this project. Hopefully it will help occupy them in the run up to Christmas.

Have a good one everybody.

Good stuff Lackluster.... H, Lloyds sorting you out with the stripes?