Originally Posted by
Kontact
Stated in modern terms, the '71 is a 62cm bike with an enormous 61cm TT, and the '74 has a crazy short 56cm TT. The shorter '74 TT would be easier to sit upright upon.
I took some notes when I owned the '71 International: top tube was 23 1/2", or 59cm.
My '74 has a top tube of 22 1/2", or 57cm. These were measured center to center.
Originally Posted by
Kontact
Wheelbase wise, the International is supposed to have big tire clearance, and went from 46cm chainstays to 43cm. Either should be capable of decent tire size and fenders, but the '71s long stays might make the handling pokey and add unnecessary weight.
The main limitation on tire size is probably the width between the chainstays. Mine is about 37mm where the tire passes between them.
Originally Posted by
Kontact
You can argue the merits of the change, but that 24" top tube wasn't doing most people any favors.
That may be true, but I'm not in that group of "most". One of the things I like about these Raleighs is the top tube length. Maybe my legs are too long for my torso?
Steve in Peoria