1982 Raleigh Clubman 25" frame

[Mattyboy]

I picked up a 1982 (I think) red Raleigh Clubman frame today.

Looks like original paintwork in great condition... But the Reynolds sticker says 531c.

Frame number WN 200...

Did Raleigh make the Clubman in 531c or have I bought a ringer?

Thanks
Matty

 

[pigman]

First, did you mean 25 inches or is it for a newborn?

Easiest test for 531c (and most , but not always quality tubing) is it a 27.2mm seatpost? If it is , you've done good

 

[Mattyboy]

Haha yes sorry 25" 63cm.

Yes it is 27.2mm seatpost. I measured that when I got it home and fitted a 27.2mm seat post. The 27mm seatpost I also offered up was clearly too slack. The 27.2mm is a perfect fit.

I simply can't find reference to a 531c Clubman from 1982.

My research brings up 531 main tubes for a Clubman. These type frames were usually straight gauge 531 triangle with 27mm seat tube iirc?

Thanks for your feedback.

Matty

 

[non-fixie]

WN2 would be an October 1982 production date, I believe, which could/would make it a model year '83 bike.

Not that it matters much. Spec for both years is a double-butted 531 main triangle, which is consistent with a 27.2 seat post.

 

[Mattyboy]

WN2 would be an October 1982 production date, I believe, which could/would make it a model year '83 bike.

Not that it matters much. Spec for both years is a double-butted 531 main triangle, which is consistent with a 27.2 seat post.

Yes indeed I now realise that the Oct 82 would have been sold as the 83 range

Some of the decals, including the Reynolds one are stickers but the gold line work etc doesn't look like stickers.

I feel it is refinish, albeit a good one. Hence the incorrect version of the Reynolds sticker.

I've built it up as a straight bar single for now but will run it 1x7 on straight or maybe drops when I can get the parts.

It rides really well. Light enough and comfortable without being too flexy

 

[non-fixie]

I like that bike. Its geometry is much like - if not identical to - the venerable Super Course. It sits between racing and touring, which seems to be a sweet spot for many, including myself. A versatile machine.

 

[Mattyboy]

Interestingly the decal set from H Lloyd contains a 531c sticker. I have contacted them and suggested that this is an error. I does explain why the above frame I have just purchased has the wrong sticker... It's defo a refinish with an H Lloyd sticker set

 

[Guinessisgoodforyou]

Only main tubes are 531 on the Clubman. Lovely bike I had one many years ago.

 

[Mattyboy]

I'm going to be changing it very soon from single speed to 2x8 and keep it with straight bars for the foreseeable.

Photos to follow when the build is complete

Cheers
Matty

 

[Mattyboy]

2x8 done. Will convert to drops with DTS soon.