Hey everyone! I've been riding a bike since I was a kid, but I've only just recently taken an active interest in my gear. I'm a freelance photographer, and on the side I'm an Apple Certified laptop tech, so taking things apart and learning how they work is definitely something I'm into!

What sparked the recent curiosity in learning more about my bike is that I inherited a pretty nice '70s Raleigh Grand Prix from my mom, and I'm looking to restore it.



Based on what I've read (much of it from this very useful forum!) I think the frame is a tiny bit too big for me - when I'm standing, off the saddle, the top tube is pretty much getting intimate with me. Let's put it this way: if I were a guy, I wouldn't be able to stand over it at all. I'm 5'2" with about a 30" inseam.

I went back and forth about selling it and getting a smaller frame, but I don't think I'd be able to afford a bike this nice and besides, my mom rode this for years and she's even shorter than I am. It's just for city commuting anyway, no heavy duty trekking.

Sorry this is so long! I'm really looking forward to learning from you wise folks and gradually getting to be a better biker. Plus you all have some nice rides!