72 Super Course restoration/ rebuild
08-20-15, 12:03 PM
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72 Super Course restoration/ rebuild
I'm new here, but figured I'd post what I've been working on. I was given this 72 Super Course -- It was kind of rough. It was repainted Green over the original Coffee brown color, so I stripped the frame to bare metal and repainted metallic blue. I added the white panels as I liked the look of the 74's (I think that's when those were added). I'm waiting on some decals and then I'll clear coat with 2K Urethane. Still acquiring parts to finish the build. I'm wondering if I should treat the inside of the frame with something to help keep rust in check.
08-20-15, 01:22 PM
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Were the chain stays and fork fully chromed before the painting?
08-20-15, 01:41 PM
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No, they were half-chromed.
I have one, but I call it a 1971. They changed from Huret derailleurs to Simplex around that time, so I figure that if it came with Hurets (as mine did) it's more likely to be a 1971, and if it came with Simplex, it's more likely to be a 1972, though there are no guarantees.
I found mine in the trash in 2009 or so. I had recently given up on my Peugeot UO-8, so I transferred most of the components from it to the Super Course. I expected the ride to be similar. It was not. The Super Course blows the UO-8 away.
I like what you've done so far. How do you plan to equip it?
I have one, but I call it a 1971. They changed from Huret derailleurs to Simplex around that time, so I figure that if it came with Hurets (as mine did) it's more likely to be a 1971, and if it came with Simplex, it's more likely to be a 1972, though there are no guarantees.
I found mine in the trash in 2009 or so. I had recently given up on my Peugeot UO-8, so I transferred most of the components from it to the Super Course. I expected the ride to be similar. It was not. The Super Course blows the UO-8 away.
I like what you've done so far. How do you plan to equip it?
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“When man invented the bicycle he reached the peak of his attainments.” — Elizabeth West, US author
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Tom Reingold, tom@noglider.com
New York City and High Falls, NY
Blogs: The Experienced Cyclist; noglider's ride blog
“When man invented the bicycle he reached the peak of his attainments.” — Elizabeth West, US author
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08-20-15, 03:32 PM
#5
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No, they were half-chromed.
I have one, but I call it a 1971. They changed from Huret derailleurs to Simplex around that time, so I figure that if it came with Hurets (as mine did) it's more likely to be a 1971, and if it came with Simplex, it's more likely to be a 1972, though there are no guarantees.
I found mine in the trash in 2009 or so. I had recently given up on my Peugeot UO-8, so I transferred most of the components from it to the Super Course. I expected the ride to be similar. It was not. The Super Course blows the UO-8 away.
I like what you've done so far. How do you plan to equip it?
I have one, but I call it a 1971. They changed from Huret derailleurs to Simplex around that time, so I figure that if it came with Hurets (as mine did) it's more likely to be a 1971, and if it came with Simplex, it's more likely to be a 1972, though there are no guarantees.
I found mine in the trash in 2009 or so. I had recently given up on my Peugeot UO-8, so I transferred most of the components from it to the Super Course. I expected the ride to be similar. It was not. The Super Course blows the UO-8 away.
I like what you've done so far. How do you plan to equip it?
Mine has Huret derailleurs too. It has a 6 digit serial number on the left dropout, so I guessed 72 from info on the Raleigh Serial Number Site.
So far, I have Suntour Seven derailleurs and shifters and a Raleigh-branded SR Royal 52/45 crank set and BB. SR Road Champion bars and stem, and the original Weinmann 750 CP brakes/ Weinmann Red Dot levers. Restored the Normandy hubs and will lace those to new rims. I was thinking about the Sun M13II or CR18 in 700C X 36 PV.
Any opinions on a rim for this bike? I'd like to run at least 700C x 25 tires.
08-20-15, 03:40 PM
#6
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The Raleigh serial number site is not all that reliable. It's just a guideline, not precise, though saying so might insult the author.
Your plan sounds good. I don't have experience with the M13II, though I've read good things about it. The CR18's are excellent if slightly heavy. I have used them.
I have 27" wheels on my Super Course. I have a 28mm tire in front and 32mm in the rear. I think the bike can take 35mm or wider tires, and I recommend 28 or 32mm tires. Either of those rims will accommodate the tires you want.
Be sure to check in at our Super Course thread. There is a lot of enthusiasm for this model. It was sold in high volume because it was mid-to-low-priced, depending on your point of view. Original components weren't very good, but the ride is a lot nicer than you'd expect, so upgrades are worthwhile. When I eventually get my 1974 Raleigh International built up, I'm curious to compare the rides of the two. They should be similar, though the International is likely to be lighter. The Super Course is surprisingly capable at climbing.
Welcome to bikeforums.
Your plan sounds good. I don't have experience with the M13II, though I've read good things about it. The CR18's are excellent if slightly heavy. I have used them.
I have 27" wheels on my Super Course. I have a 28mm tire in front and 32mm in the rear. I think the bike can take 35mm or wider tires, and I recommend 28 or 32mm tires. Either of those rims will accommodate the tires you want.
Be sure to check in at our Super Course thread. There is a lot of enthusiasm for this model. It was sold in high volume because it was mid-to-low-priced, depending on your point of view. Original components weren't very good, but the ride is a lot nicer than you'd expect, so upgrades are worthwhile. When I eventually get my 1974 Raleigh International built up, I'm curious to compare the rides of the two. They should be similar, though the International is likely to be lighter. The Super Course is surprisingly capable at climbing.
Welcome to bikeforums.
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New York City and High Falls, NY
Blogs: The Experienced Cyclist; noglider's ride blog
“When man invented the bicycle he reached the peak of his attainments.” — Elizabeth West, US author
Please email me rather than PM'ing me. Thanks.
Tom Reingold, tom@noglider.com
New York City and High Falls, NY
Blogs: The Experienced Cyclist; noglider's ride blog
“When man invented the bicycle he reached the peak of his attainments.” — Elizabeth West, US author
Please email me rather than PM'ing me. Thanks.
08-20-15, 03:47 PM
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Welcome to the Bike Forums...and great looking frame! Typically, I like the original paint, but you had no choice on that one...and I like the color with the white panels...sharp looking! Your build also sounds solid...
I have a 1980 Super Course...and it is quite a good ride! Mine is largely original and still I love it...my son also loves it, when he comes down to visit, he PURPOSEFULLY leaves his bikes at home so he can ride my Super Course...he has actually admitted that to me...I think he wants to take it home with him...amazingly, his rack is always with him! :-)
As for the frame...since you have it torn all the way down...find a can of Frame Saver (I think most shops would have it...or order it online, of course)...and spray the inside...I have heard mixed reviews of it, but I do it for one simple reason...it cannot hurt! It is supposed to inhibit rust from inside...
I have a 1980 Super Course...and it is quite a good ride! Mine is largely original and still I love it...my son also loves it, when he comes down to visit, he PURPOSEFULLY leaves his bikes at home so he can ride my Super Course...he has actually admitted that to me...I think he wants to take it home with him...amazingly, his rack is always with him! :-)
As for the frame...since you have it torn all the way down...find a can of Frame Saver (I think most shops would have it...or order it online, of course)...and spray the inside...I have heard mixed reviews of it, but I do it for one simple reason...it cannot hurt! It is supposed to inhibit rust from inside...
08-21-15, 12:10 AM
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Pretty cool; when life hands you a frame with a messed up paint job; repaint it! Looks like you've done some good work so far.
Once you get the the decals and clear coat on, you can make the frame really glow by rubbing it out with some rubbing compound, glaze, then wax. Take your time.
Once you get the the decals and clear coat on, you can make the frame really glow by rubbing it out with some rubbing compound, glaze, then wax. Take your time.
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● 1971 Grandis SL ● 1972 Lambert Grand Prix frankenbike ● 1972 Raleigh Super Course fixie ● 1973 Nishiki Semi-Pro ● 1979 Motobecane Grand Jubile ●1980 Apollo "Legnano" ● 1984 Peugeot Vagabond ● 1985 Shogun Prairie Breaker ● 1986 Merckx Super Corsa ● 1987 Schwinn Tempo ● 1988 Schwinn Voyageur ● 1989 Bottechia Team ADR replica ● 1990 Cannondale ST600 ● 1993 Technium RT600 ● 1996 Kona Lava Dome ●
● 1971 Grandis SL ● 1972 Lambert Grand Prix frankenbike ● 1972 Raleigh Super Course fixie ● 1973 Nishiki Semi-Pro ● 1979 Motobecane Grand Jubile ●1980 Apollo "Legnano" ● 1984 Peugeot Vagabond ● 1985 Shogun Prairie Breaker ● 1986 Merckx Super Corsa ● 1987 Schwinn Tempo ● 1988 Schwinn Voyageur ● 1989 Bottechia Team ADR replica ● 1990 Cannondale ST600 ● 1993 Technium RT600 ● 1996 Kona Lava Dome ●
08-21-15, 08:53 AM
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Thanks for the welcomes and the feedback everyone. It sounds like I'm on the right track so far. I'll get some Frame Saver and spray that in the frame. I'll post some more pictures as things progress.
08-21-15, 09:19 AM
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The Super Course is a grossly under-rated frame. I have never owned one, but I suspect my 1959 Capo, which also has straight-gauge 531, is similar in ride quality.
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Capo: 1959 Modell Campagnolo, S/N 40324; 1960 Sieger (2), S/N 42624, 42597
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"Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing." --Theodore Roosevelt
Capo: 1959 Modell Campagnolo, S/N 40324; 1960 Sieger (2), S/N 42624, 42597
Carlton: 1962 Franco Suisse, S/N K7911
Peugeot: 1970 UO-8, S/N 0010468
Bianchi: 1982 Campione d'Italia, S/N 1.M9914
Schwinn: 1988 Project KOM-10, S/N F804069
08-21-15, 09:22 AM
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The Super Course is a grossly under-rated frame. I have never owned one, but I suspect my 1959 Capo, which also has straight-gauge 531 and a sports-touring geometry, is similar in ride quality.
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"Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing." --Theodore Roosevelt
Capo: 1959 Modell Campagnolo, S/N 40324; 1960 Sieger (2), S/N 42624, 42597
Carlton: 1962 Franco Suisse, S/N K7911
Peugeot: 1970 UO-8, S/N 0010468
Bianchi: 1982 Campione d'Italia, S/N 1.M9914
Schwinn: 1988 Project KOM-10, S/N F804069
"Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing." --Theodore Roosevelt
Capo: 1959 Modell Campagnolo, S/N 40324; 1960 Sieger (2), S/N 42624, 42597
Carlton: 1962 Franco Suisse, S/N K7911
Peugeot: 1970 UO-8, S/N 0010468
Bianchi: 1982 Campione d'Italia, S/N 1.M9914
Schwinn: 1988 Project KOM-10, S/N F804069
09-07-15, 03:42 PM
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Made some progress with the Super Course. Got the decals applied and clear coated the frame with 2K urethane. Installed the Brakes, Cranks, Derailleurs and Bars. Rims will be here tomorrow and I'll lace up the wheels this week.
09-07-15, 03:46 PM
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This is going to be a special bike; nice job.
09-07-15, 04:43 PM
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rickrob-
You'll have a very nice rider when you are done. My old green Super Course came with 27 x 1 1/4 Clement cotton gum wall tires. Absolutely the best riding tire I have ever used so you know you can go up to at least that size while building your wheels. There is a lot of wheel clearance as well should you want fenders. The paint and decals look great and I await the reveal for the finished bike. Nice job.
You'll have a very nice rider when you are done. My old green Super Course came with 27 x 1 1/4 Clement cotton gum wall tires. Absolutely the best riding tire I have ever used so you know you can go up to at least that size while building your wheels. There is a lot of wheel clearance as well should you want fenders. The paint and decals look great and I await the reveal for the finished bike. Nice job.
09-08-15, 09:12 AM
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Damn, that's nice work.
I've rode my Super Course yesterday and also on the previous weekend. If you told me I could only keep one bike and it had to be the Super Course, I'd say OK. I like it that much. I keep mine ugly, because one ugly bike among a few bikes is OK with me.
I've rode my Super Course yesterday and also on the previous weekend. If you told me I could only keep one bike and it had to be the Super Course, I'd say OK. I like it that much. I keep mine ugly, because one ugly bike among a few bikes is OK with me.
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“When man invented the bicycle he reached the peak of his attainments.” — Elizabeth West, US author
Please email me rather than PM'ing me. Thanks.
Tom Reingold, tom@noglider.com
New York City and High Falls, NY
Blogs: The Experienced Cyclist; noglider's ride blog
“When man invented the bicycle he reached the peak of his attainments.” — Elizabeth West, US author
Please email me rather than PM'ing me. Thanks.
09-08-15, 09:34 AM
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Very nice. I picked up a 72 SC frame a few years back that had gone through many owners (and many rattle cans). I built it up into my daily commuter and marvel how well it rides (even loaded down) for a 40+ year old bike.
09-08-15, 09:48 AM
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Something about that "Super Course Mk II" decal that makes is so British and cool.
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09-08-15, 10:21 AM
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Fantastic! That is some inspiring, (and humbling) work!
Did you do the painting at home, or with professional equipment? I also applaud the build, to include the wheels etc. Beautiful craftsmanship.
Welcome,
Eric
09-08-15, 11:44 AM
#21
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Wow, Thanks again everyone! I'm really happy with the way things are going with this project. I can't wait to get out there and ride this one.
I did the painting at home-- I used Duplicolor self-etching primer and Perfect Match Acrylic Lacquers. The Clear Coat is Spray Max Glamour 2K Urethane.
I did the painting at home-- I used Duplicolor self-etching primer and Perfect Match Acrylic Lacquers. The Clear Coat is Spray Max Glamour 2K Urethane.
09-08-15, 02:04 PM
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Cool, I painted a set of forks with blue metallic duplicolor that came out beautifully. Then I remembered I those forks were supposed to be red... I'm just about ready to do the blue metallic on the right bike, an eisetrait limited and got the self etching primer too. The high build didn't stick to the bare steel so well. Just a little more prep. Getting those old paints out of the BB area is a b÷$#&.
Looking forward to your next pics!
Looking forward to your next pics!
Last edited by Last ride 76; 09-08-15 at 02:06 PM. Reason: Darn word program changes too many words.
09-08-15, 04:51 PM
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Nice job! I've used Dupli-color Perfect Match under the 2K urethane with great results. The 2K really slicked out the base-coat color. Gave it lotsa gloss.
09-08-15, 05:15 PM
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Very nice. As another has noted, I've never owned one, don't know if I've ever ridden one, but lots of potential. I'm in the 'hood' if you're out and about.
Do you have some 700c wheels to try? That was built with 27s, so you might end up with a pretty big reach for the brakes. I've both if you want a trial fit.
Do you have some 700c wheels to try? That was built with 27s, so you might end up with a pretty big reach for the brakes. I've both if you want a trial fit.
Last edited by Ed.; 09-08-15 at 05:18 PM. Reason: Added comment about 700C wheels