About 1970, I paid $140 for a year-old Raleigh International, in the lovely translucent brown over gold. I wound up varnishing a "Kahlua" symbol onto the top tube, since I liked the color so much.
I have never been as excited about getting a bike, and enjoyed it very much. But, this one had been converted to wired-on tires, and wasn't terribly sporting. At the time, I blamed it on the round rapid taper chainstays, and traced the bike to a buddy who promptly showed me how nice it was with sew-ups. Meanwhile, I'd gone to a super-stiff Torpado, which didn't suit me when I grew up a year or so later. :-)
It's a long time ago, but my sense is still that it would be lovely as a day-riding bike, but not as responsive as the best true racers by the standards of that era.
harvey sachs mcLean va ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Brad Luecke wrote:
For what it is worth I had one in the 1970's. LOVED it. Would still have it, but it was stolen. BUT....I assume you've been reading the Raleigh Pro thread going on now. The International is similar, loved by some, disparaged by others.
I found it a good riding, comfortable ride, not too short a wheel base, but definitely not a long wheel base. By the way, they came with light sewup/tubular wheels/tires which greatly improved the ride over the clincher tires/wheels available at that time. It did have fender and rack eyelets on the frame and on the fork. I did several long loaded tours on mine. I also remember being "harassed" at local races because of the Blackburn rack on the back. But as I fondly recall, I often finished ahead of the pack.
It is a semi collectable bike, so it may be had to find a good example on the cheap. They were all Campy with the exception of Weinman brakes. A real Brooks saddle was included. GB bar and stem.
Anyway, I think they would be a great vintage bike to have and to ride.
Find one that makes you happy