Raleigh Randonneur 708 1997

[doctor-bond]

They are out there! Never seen the Passport before - what's inside? This one looks like it might have a few interesting stamps.

 

[David708]

I bought my 708ST from the owner of a local bike shop. He’d used it for a cycle tour in France, but was since hanging up proudly at the front of the shop; pretty much original including original Brooks saddle, spare spokes on the chain stay and original colour bar tape. Its really weird, but just some minor tweaks with the geometry when compared to some other bikes I have, it allows long distances in relative comfort. Fully laden it coped admirably too down the Tourmalet albeit with the need for better brake blocks. Its coming to the stage now for a deserved respray. I’ve added some of other pages from the Passport for interest (dated 1997 Raleigh SP Division).

 

[Guinessisgoodforyou]

Lovely bikes. I have had both 531 Royal and Randonneur, also both in 708. The 708 is far superior. As far as I know the 708 Royal and Randonneur are identical frames, different colour and equipment level.

 

[David708]

Lovely bikes. I have had both 531 Royal and Randonneur, also both in 708. The 708 is far superior. As far as I know the 708 Royal and Randonneur are identical frames, different colour and equipment level.

Yeah, the Randonneur & Royal were based on same frame just differing spec and colour. I’d love to add a Rando type front rack that secures to the low rider fork bosses than those that fix to canti bosses. As yet to find one

 

[doctor-bond]

Nitto M1 or M18 should work.

 

[MarkRutherford]

Hi Doctor Bond, thanks for really helpful piece on the Raleigh Randonneur and love what you've done with yours.
I'm really keen to find a Randonneur 708 (frame around 56cm size) for audax and touring.
I have a Raleigh Rapide that I restored and it is a lovely ride. Pic attached.
Any pointers to find a Randonneur or frame gratefully appreciated. Thanks ...Mark

 

[Guinessisgoodforyou]

I love the Rapide, I've just rebuilt an earlier version. Pictures in my bike thread.

 

[MarkRutherford]

I love the Rapide, I've just rebuilt an earlier version. Pictures in my bike thread.

It's such a lovely ride and with the 26t granny gear it's just slightly easier than the Team Replica and Gran Sport for hills. Downloaded the catalogue and realised the bar tape and saddle should be black. Sorting that now. How's yours?

 

[Guinessisgoodforyou]

It's such a lovely ride and with the 26t granny gear it's just slightly easier than the Team Replica and Gran Sport for hills. Downloaded the catalogue and realised the bar tape and saddle should be black. Sorting that now. How's yours?

Mine is period not catalogue.

 

[MarkRutherford]

Mine is period not catalogue.

View attachment 871270View attachment 871271

Looks really nice. I'm going to black Benotto bar tape this weekend although I always think it looks strange with the brown hoods