Damien- For any one who is familiar with the English Raleigh bikes spotting a Japanese version is easy. They look kind of like the English ones but the details are slightly off. Clumsier lug lining but with more consistent frame paint being the start of the visuals differences. My memory is too dim to recall if the drop outs were different but I think so. Also dim is the change from Euro but non Campy components, to Campy GS (with the three arm crank) then to the Campy GS with the 5 arm crank. I sure others will be more detailed in the comparison.
>
> Hi everyone,
> By way of introduction I have been racing bicycles for about 25 years in
> New England, not so much the past 5 years, and as for results, solidly
> mediocre. I cut my riding and racing teeth on a 1974 Raleigh Super Course
> Mk II (green and white) which I am still kicking myself for getting rid
> of - although I have the Normandy hubs and Huret Jubilee DRs on my desk as
> conversation pieces). Of late have been developing a keen interest in
> acquiring and refurbishing a vintage ride. Here is my question:
>
> Was the Raleigh Competition GS ever manufactured in Japan? I am pretty
> certain through the 1970s they were made only in England - so I am
> concerned with 1980, 81, 82. I do not have a serial number to reference at
> this time - so if some were made in Japan and some not, does anyone know
> how one could tell the difference?
>
> I am considering acquiring a 1981 with full GS components - and it says
> "Carlton" on the seat tube. But I really want to invest in an England-made
> frame for this project. Thanks in advance - you guys (meaning everyone)
> are great!
>
> Damien Roohr
> Canton CT
> 1999 Klein Quantum Pro
> 1982 Schwinn Traveler fixie conversion
>
> _______________________________________________
Andrew R Stewart
Rochester, NY