My first experience with a Raleigh was a Rapide, and it was an abysmal bike.

My second experience was with an R700 aluminum model, for a friend. It's pretty, let's put it at that.

After working on the Racing USA Series, I've come to like them for the approach, though they were not competitive.

All that aside, I just picked up a 1959 Sport in very good shape, with a dyno front, and all original except tires. It weighs about as much as my car, and will take about as long to restore, with no efficient use going forward that I can see, but it's kind of cool.

I did recommend a carbon Raleigh to a guy I don't particularly care for, so if it's good, fine. If not, fine.

The jury is still out on my end, though the 531 1986 models seem right in line with what else was out there at the same price, at the time.

The OP is right, though, people sure like them.