Originally Posted by
billthecat
I recently purchased a used Raleigh Grand Prix from a local bike guy. It's in pretty nice shape, rides pretty well and, overall, I think I got a decent deal. We are replacing the brake pads with new as the rubber was quite dried out and hardened from age. Otherwise, what upgrades to this bicycle are worthwhile for an occasional rider around town. We're not talking racing here, just basic bike riding ... my normal rides are starting at 5 miles round trip but I plan to expand as I get back into riding.
This one doesn't have the brake extension levers ... I know they are a point of contention among many ... but I think I would have liked having them there if anyone knows where to pick up vintage replacements. Otherwise, what to upgrade: rims? tires?
Thanks!
Without seeing the bike and not knowing if its been overhaulled, it's very hard to give solid advice. During the lockdown last March, I overhaulled a 1974 Raleigh Grand Prix using all of the stock components. The only "upgrades" were Kool-Stop brake pads and Continental Ultra-Sport tires. It rides, shifts and brakes very well...