[CR] Intro & comp GS country of manufacture question

(Example: Production Builders:LeJeune)

Date: Wed, 9 Dec 2009 15:49:31 +0000
From: "damien roohr" <droohr@comcast.net>
To: <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
In-Reply-To: <436423931.3677911260373517813.JavaMail.root@sz0151a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net>
Subject: [CR] Intro & comp GS country of manufacture question


Hi everyone, By way of introduction I have been racing bicycles for about 25 years in New England, not so much the past 5 years, and as for results, solidly mediocre. I cut my riding and racing teeth on a 1974 Raleigh Super Course Mk II (green and white) which I am still kicking myself for getting rid of - although I have the Normandy hubs and Huret Jubilee DRs on my desk as conversation pieces). Of late have been developing a keen interest in acquiring and refurbishing a vintage ride. Here is my question:

Was the Raleigh Competition GS ever manufactured in Japan? I am pretty certain through the 1970s they were made only in England - so I am concerned with 1980, 81, 82. I do not have a serial number to reference at this time - so if some were made in Japan and some not, does anyone know how one could tell the difference?

I am considering acquiring a 1981 with full GS components - and it says "Carlton" on the seat tube. But I really want to invest in an England-made frame for this project. Thanks in advance - you guys (meaning everyone) are great!

Damien Roohr
Canton CT
1999 Klein Quantum Pro
1982 Schwinn Traveler fixie conversion