Raleigh Montage - some queries about mine
I have just bought a Montage and I wanted to compare it to yours.
It has its rear brake (LeeChi 767A Jumbo u-brake) under the chainstay rather than on the seat stay, so it must be a different model.
The frame number on the sticker on the seat tube is 00598927 and on the BB is RA20 JQ. Also the fluted SR Laprade seat stem says J88. How do the frame numbers differ from yours?
The bike looks scarcely used, so much so that I wonder if the new looking tyres are in fact the originals. They are Cheng Shin C616-6, TW8470, only inflatable to 40PSI. These are going because I want to use it as a commuter/tourer not an off-roader. What tyres do people recommend?
I am thinking of changing a few other things: higher, more swept-back bars (I find the seating position too advanced), a Brooks saddle (honey B17 - the Vetta Gel is agony) and a rear rack. (This last seems awkward to fit as there are no braze-ons).
I hope these changes seem like improvements not vandalism. It does seem to be a lovely ride (how much due to the OvalTech chainring?). If your's is 1989, does that make mine older or younger? (Oh, and the horizontal drop-outs have threaded holes to centre a hubgear, which shows the frame's origins). I will post photos soon.