get_thybearings

Ok...So in the beginning of the month I bought an 1972 Raleigh Gran Prix with slightly upgraded components:
New wheel set - Weinmann Rm19
New tires, suntour hero rear derailleur,
campagnolo front derailleur, some sort of sugino crankset
The bike was heavy but decent for a daily rider (it also fit my budget nicely). Here is a pic:
Unfortunately the seat kept moving around slightly, no matter how I adjusted it with allen keys.
I took it in to see if they could secure it. I was informed that the frame was cracked at the seat post.
They could not let me leave with it, and offered to credit my account until they found me a replacement.
Yesterday they called me, said they had something ready. I went in and it was a Cadex (made by Giant, I believe).
I think its early or mid 90's. It has a Wolber GR622 (700) wheel set, and Rx100 groupset.
It is a lugged carbon fiber frame. Despite the horror stories I heard regarding used older carbon fiber frames, I took it.
It rides great and is quite smooth in comparison to what I am used to. Here are pics:

My question: Is this a fair trade. I feel like this bike has better components. I am certain they inspected the frame well.
I even voiced my concerns regarding carbon frames, but they assured me it was sound. It rides smooth. I am a daily rider and commuter. My knowledge of bikes is still rather novice and I am used to vintage bikes. Did I make a mistake? Any input is appreciated.

4Rings6Stars

Just to get this straight... You bought the Raleigh from the bike shop? Then brought it there for service, they noticed it was damaged and then later gave you the Giant as a replacement? Did you pay extra for it or was it an even swap?

If an even swap, I think you're doing fine. The Cadex is certainly worth more than the Raleigh. I wouldn't hesitate to ride it and would normally say that it is probably not as durable as a hi-ten steel Raleigh...but the fact that the raleigh frame failed doesn't help that argument.

Also---does it fit? Looks like a few cm larger than the Raleigh?

likebike23

If it was an even trade, I would be very happy. The Giant is a much nicer bike. It looks like it is more of a racer setup as there are no eyelets for racks/fenders and tighter tire clearance. It might not be the best commuter, but the RX100 components alone are worth more than the whole Raleigh. If it doesn't work as a commuter, you could transfer the parts to another frame like a pake c'mute or you could sell/trade it for a better commuter.

get_thybearings

Yes, I bought the Raleigh at the LBS. It was an even swap. The Giant is a little larger. It is a 56cm and the Raleigh was a 54or 55cm.
It still fits fine. I am about 5'9-5'10". It is a little closer on the stand over height, and the positioning is a bit more aggressive, but it fits well when riding. It is quite and smooth. The bike makes almost no noise. I am used to 80's Nishiki's and such (mid level non racing road bikes). I still have my Nishiki 55cm frame (and parts) and am stripping it to paint. If worst comes to worst, I may switch everything over that fits. As it stands, I think this will work, though. I just wasn't sure if it was a good decision. I assume they gave me a slight upgrade for my troubles which is nice. Thanks for the information. I feel a little better about it.

pinch1967

nice upgrade!!