At the risk of sounding like a vintage bike curmudgeon, which is only partly true, with two carbon and an aluminum build in the stable, why should you buy a new Raleigh of questionable heritage, when you can ride a real Carlton made Raleigh for about the same $$? I have '73 and '78 Raleigh Super Courses, which I love and often take on any ride where I would take my modern bikes. They look better, ride better, are responsive, and have actually set Strava "bests" on many rides that I also do with the modern bikes. The green '73 was built from a scrap metal pile found frame, restored, upgraded as a first build by a rookie builder - me (except for paint). The gold '78 started out as a $20 Craigslist find. I enjoy the modern bikes, but if it's a classy ride that will do pretty much anything you could want on the ride, take a look at the old bikes out there, fun to find, fun to build or upgrade. Here's mine. BTW, I've been riding the same Legnano for 55 years, but you asked about Raleigh. Several have made comments about old school Raleigh quality, but luck of the draw (?) these two have been great rides.
My '73, built from a scrap metal frame, done 3,000 miles since 2016 build.
My '78, a $20 Craigslist find.
My favorire part.
