SBDU Ilkeston 531 Randonneur 1985 SB7660

[originalshinkicker]

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Really good to see this. I love these fast, practical bikes that Raleigh made. My Raleigh is based on a 531ST frame set that was for sale at the same time, although lightweight division rather than SBDU, viewtopic.php?f=23&t=319398. Interesting to compare I think though. I take it your wheels are 700c.? What's the gearing?

Hi Pharley, yes it is 700c; 700 x 28. I may go down to 25mm tyres though. The bike has clearance but the 28mm tyres are close to the guards at the fork crown and rear bridge. The gearing is what came with the bike but is very nice to pedal, it is 38/48 on the front, a lovely Stronglight crank with TA rings. The freewheel is 5 speed 14-28 Suntour Perfect.

I had it out the other night and it rolls and pedals really smoothly!

 

[Pharley]

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Thanks for replying. Mine has 27 inch wheels. I went with 27x1 1/4 to replace the 27 1 3/8 that were fitted when I got it but that was purely down to supply and price. I think I will switch down next time as its a tight fit to the guards. My gearing was 52 42 with 28 14 I think. I swapped the smaller ring to 38 though and it's better for me. Good to here it rides well and really like mine and can imagine riding for many years all being well.