A Classic Mistake?

[averagebiker]

I picked up a Pioneer with 501 tubing recently as I think these Raleighs are very underated and undervalued bikes that can cover a lot of riding uses. Most importantly l don't think they are being attractive to the scum that carry bolt cutters and cordless angle grinders!!

When PO strikes allow my cheap ebay friction thumbies to arrive mine will become a pub/station/shopping bike. I may even try it out in a longer journey to see if it can perform duties as a slow and steady explorer bike

So of you have room for a multipurpose bike in your stable I say keep it. If you won't use it and it will get in the way offload it.

 

[legrandefromage]

Ah, the 'Posh Pioneer'

501db and suntour glory!

 

[chambo34]

I've the 'trail' version, great capable machines, first thing l did was to ditch the plastic levers and brake arms with dome alloy Shimano ones l has in the shed, transformed it.

 

[chambo34]

Mmm .. turbo trainer - the most effective tool to aid the dislike of cycling

Essential these last few rain filled weeks though!

 

[Guinessisgoodforyou]

Essential these last few rain filled weeks though!

Unless you're stupid like me and just ride, no comment is required

 

[chambo34]

Unless you're stupid like me and just ride, no comment is required

Oh I've braved a few, did Chesterfield canal to Rother Valley a couple of weeks ago... 25 miles of the wettest I've ever been including swimming

 

[Guinessisgoodforyou]

Oh I've braved a few, did Chesterfield canal to Rother Valley a couple of weeks ago... 25 miles of the wettest I've ever been including swimming

Was in Chesterfield a couple of months ago to pick up a bike, my wife was overjoyed

 

[chambo34]

Was in Chesterfield a couple of months ago to pick up a bike, my wife was overjoyed

Thursday Flea market day is best day, Alloy framed Raleigh pioneer on a few weeks ago just needing quick wash £30

 

[SirLurkalot]

I've had this for a couple of years now. Apart from putting it on a turbo trainer for a laugh I haven't ridden it. That changed this Tuesday. It actually rides rather nice.

 

[Mbwsm]

I've got one of these in a fetching mauve, with the Cro-Moly frame and prerequisite '90s plastic bits. Despite the low-ish spec it's a really lovely ride, all things considered.

I've got a massive soft spot for mine - it was my father's, and I remember his joy bringing it home from Halfords' Boxing Day sales back in 1997. I believe it was around £300 at full price, and came with a grey Raleigh branded frame pump - thrilling stuff. Sounds really expensive now, but with indexed GripShift shifters it seemed quite modern despite the relaxed, gentlemanly look.

I won't pretend it's the best ride in the world, and you'll definitely swoop through corners with all the agility of a tanker in treacle, but they're charming little bikes that are definitely underrated. Hope you've still got your 'mistake' and have found some joy from it!