hey Brian, how can you post about a shiny new paint job on a nice Raleigh and not post pictures?!

I've been through a few Raleighs, and their paint was never all that durable. For a black bike, I don't see a lot of downside to having nice new paint. It's not like you are trying to match the exact red of a Raleigh Team bike or get the blue mink of a Professional just right.

I've got a Raleigh International in great shape, but the paint and workmanship isn't particularly great. The paint is a "flamboyant", or candy, scheme, which I think is pretty cool and would be expensive to duplicate. The Competition was the next lower model, and probably had similar workmanship. As long as Keith kept a similar sort of finish, i.e. not too glossy or thick, it should be better than new.

I'm curious about the financial aspect of the project. A new paint job is rather pricey compared to the cost of a well used Competition frame. On the other hand, it's probably a good deal cheaper than a lot of frames currently being produced. It's probably a good value if you plan to ride the bike a long time. Not so good if your plan is to resell it quickly. What were the things or aspects that you debated prior to making the decision to repaint?
edit: oops... I see that the current owner had it repainted. It couldn't have been cheap. Personally, if the paint was done well, it should help the value. The rust would be a bigger concern, especially since the new paint will increase the bike's price <end of edit>

Steve in Peoria