Speed Conversion Q's
 

I have a old 1982 Raleigh Rapide 10spd (2X5). Would I be able to install Shimano 105 20 spd (2X10) crank/cassette system on the bike? If not, then can I find an integrated shifter-brake system (like Shimano or SRAM) for this machine using the 2X5 crank/cassette sprockets already on the bike? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!

Yes, it can be done but the expense and changes to the frame may be more than you consider reasonable.

Your Raleigh is probably spaced 120 mm at the rear hub since most 5-speed frames were. Modern 8,9 and 10-speed hubs are 130 mm wide and that's a big adjustment. Also, you would need the following new components:

Rear wheel
Crank
Bottom bracket
Cassette
Chain
Brake/shifters (the biggest single expense)
Rear derailleur
Front derailleur
Cables and housing

Even if you can find bargains and do all the installation work yourself, this is going to be a costly upgrade. It would be better to look around for a much more modern used bike that would have all of your desired improvements at much less cost.

It's technically possible, but the expression "you can't make a silk purse out of ..." comes to mind. Given what you'll end up spending making all the changes, you need to think very carefully about whether the frame warrants it.

There's a tremendous difference in the cost of parts vs the cost of the same parts on a bike. At some point, replacing the wheels, bottom bracket, cranks, derailleurs and shift levers, you'll have spent enough to buy a bike with a better frame than yours, plus get new brakes, saddle, tires and handlebars for free.

Think long and hard, shop the various parts, and determine a budget. Then compare to see what those same dollars could buy in bikes. Even if you can't match everything part for part, figure the rest of the new stuff warrants a difference of at least 15%. I'd be surprised if you went ahead with this near total makeover.

consider, instead .. A different project..
a wider range 3, or 5, speed IG hub, + the dual chainrings ...
avoiding the frame spread. [a PIA], the rear hub will function in 2 ranges...
made wider by the 2 different chainrings..
RD becomes a chain-tensioner, staying centered over 1 cog on the hub
providing take up of chain slack to use both chainrings..
and simplifying the bike you have, making it more practical , a different use.

Then, go buy the latest stuff, as a whole bike purchase, for the racer style bike need.

From the Local Bike Shop ... The complex new stuff is a different sort of kit.
better to have it sorted out with nearby help if needed.
end of season there is motivation to sell bikes, rather than pay inventory taxes
on 1,1,11

A minor point but 1/1/11 came and went over 8 months ago. :)

Alright that's understandable. I am pretty sure that I can at least clean up the old suntour parts on it and get it running like a champ again though. thanks for your feedback guys.