Raleigh Compact

This is a 1970's Raleigh Compact brought up to date as a very useful shopping bike. The bike was lightened by replacing all removeable steel parts with aluminium alternatives - wheels, handlebars, brake levers, chainwheel, cranks, seatpost, pedals, etc. The bike now weighs about 25 lbs. A cartridge bottom bracket, plastic mudguards and new seat were fitted, and so the the only original part is the frame. Most of the "new" parts were, in fact, second hand, so the cost of the update was not high. The original 3 speed hub gear was replaced by a six speed derailliuer and a 52T chainwheel raised the overall gearing. The integral rear carrier was retained and now carries a large Carradice box/bag. Inside the bag is a small rucksack which can be used as extra capacity for impulse buys. A most useful little bike which is used every day on regular trips to the local supermarket. Submitted by Les Sims on Saturday 23rd February 2008.