Retro newcomer - which bike?

[Ian J]

My first step would be to figure out what kind of bike you're interested in, then worry about the size, quality, condition.

That’s the problem, not sure what bike I should be looking for: reputable brand or bespoke model, lightweight, reliable, 10+ speed - but that still leaves a dazzling list of options. Maybe I should let fate/heart play its part and see what comes up? Just been looking at a Raleigh Quadra - seems to hit most of those buttons? Enjoying the hunt and appreciate everybody’s contributions!

 

[Ian J]

With 60 cycling under your belt you could tell half the people on this forum what to buy! . Wind your mind back to the 1980's and remember some rides from back then. Some of them will be cheaper now. Some very much not!!

I had a 5 speed Carlton back in the late 70s and rode it from Warrington to South Wales and back (remember struggling on the hills in central Wales…). I think I paid £15 for it, secondhand, so maybe not cheaper now.…!?

 

[Frankenorange]

I had a 5 speed Carlton back in the late 70s and rode it from Warrington to South Wales and back (remember struggling on the hills in central Wales…). I think I paid £15 for it, secondhand, so maybe not cheaper now.…!?

15 notes in the 1970's was quite alot of money.

 

[squirrelchaser]

Dave Marsh (Maltby) has several frames and bikes for sale on their facebook page.

He likes a chat too .

 

[bagpuss]

I know a Lady who has her late husbands Raleigh Royal 531 tourer for sale . 28 cm / 23 1/2 c to t . It is in good overall condition .
Shimano components .
Near Ashbourne Derbys She is looking for £150

Money goes to prostate cancer .
Pm me for details

 

[Guinessisgoodforyou]

I know a Lady who has her late husbands Raleigh Royal 531 tourer for sale . 28 cm / 23 1/2 c to t . It is in good overall condition .
Shimano components .
Near Ashbourne Derbys She is looking for £150

Money goes to prostate cancer .
Pm me for details

Great bikes own the 708 version and have had the 531.

 

[hamster]

+1 on that, the Raleigh Royal and Randonneur are the real sleepers of the range. Lovely understated bikes.

 

[Guinessisgoodforyou]

+1 on that, the Raleigh Royal and Randonneur are the real sleepers of the range. Lovely understated bikes.

Agreed, I have a 708 Randonneur and had a 531 version too.

 

[Ian J]

I know a Lady who has her late husbands Raleigh Royal 531 tourer for sale . 28 cm / 23 1/2 c to t . It is in good overall condition .
Shimano components .
Near Ashbourne Derbys She is looking for £150

Money goes to prostate cancer .
Pm me for details

Sounds like a good option but unfortunately it will be too large. I was once 5ft 10” but now struggle to hit 5ft 8” so I probably need a 20” frame (could maybe stretch to 21”, literally). Many thanks for the offer though! (Long term supporter of the charity too)

 

[Guinessisgoodforyou]

Sounds like a good option but unfortunately it will be too large. I was once 5ft 10” but now struggle to hit 5ft 8” so I probably need a 20” frame (could maybe stretch to 21”, literally). Many thanks for the offer though! (Long term supporter of the charity too)

I know someone that has a Hanson (South African builder) in 21" for sale paintwork is tired. Rare over here.