ldio

I was just given a Raleigh Grand Prix. I am having trouble finding the year. The serial number is 27L5141 and the downtube says it was manufactured in Holland.
This will be my first bike rebuild and am a little clueless on how to find some of the components that I need. I need a new wheelset and crank. The bottom bracket is still in place, but I will probably replace that as well. From what I have been reading, it is tough to find the correct bottom bracket for these bikes as the threading and spacing differs from most other bikes. The frame looks to be in good shape, though the fork may be slightly bent, though my eyes could just be playing tricks on me. Even so, I think that I could bend it back if it is.
The bike still has the original Weinmann center pull brakes and they appear to be in great shape. The rear derailleur is a Shimano Altus Et it, seems fairly old, but I do not believe that it was the orginal. The front derailleur is a Suntour Spirit. Both seem to be in great shape.

I am not trying to spend too much money on this project, though I would like to end up with a good daily commuter. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated as I have no idea where to start. Thanks.

DOS

Depending on year the bike was made, you may or may not have an issue with the BB. At some point Raleigh switched over to Japanese components and started using standard english threading. What cranks are on there? Also, can you post picture of the BB cups?

gashog

Boy I'm just posting like crazy all of a sudden.

I stole the bottom bracket, new crank set/chain-wheels and front and rear deraliures off my brothers bent and busted Hard Rock.
I used the Raleigh cups and maybe bearings but we're talking a year ago so not sure. The Alex wheels fit pretty good and the brakes reach. I got the front wheel up a bit by rounding out the dropouts, which were square on my all chrome fork. The bike flies and it feels like it weighs about the same as my new(ish) 6061 Raleigh Sport.....Which isn't as sporty.

stausty

I have recently rebuilt basically the same bike as you - a Grand Prix made in Holland by Gazelle. You lucked out and do not have the Raleigh-threaded bottom bracket. You can find a whole new bottom bracket if you want for this bike (esp. if you want to switch to cartridge) but simply replacing the spindle isn't very hard because the BB shell is the same width as the common Japanese size. Neither of your derailers are original, I believe, but if they work then you're fine there.

As for new parts, you can find some generous folks in the Classic and Vintage forum, can find plenty of parts on eBay, and if you're lucky enough to have a local bike co-op or shop with lots of old parts, they can help you out as well.

If you have any more questions or want some specifics then you can PM me.

stausty

Oh - and I think you've got a '77 if my dating on the serial number is correct. Does it have aero brake levers? What color is the logo on the downtube? Gold/Black w/o aero levers = early '70's, White on Blue w/ aero = late '70's.

jacksbike

That is the best looking 70's era Holland made Raleigh Grand Prix that I have ever seen. Looks better then when they were brand new.

ldio

There is no crank currently on the bike, only the spindle. I can post a picture sometime next week as I just dropped off the frame at the paint shop. It has the Suntour downtube shifters and is white with black portions on the all three main tubes of the frame. Any suggestions for a good wheelset, BB, or crank? Thanks.