@Cyclist asks:
I have a Raleigh Randonneur from the early 90s. It's been well looked after, with many years of regular use, often heavily loaded. The frame was slightly dented at the back of the seat tube by a bike shop many years ago. All components apart from front & back rack have been replaced over time.
Q2. What should I check to help decide if I need to replace this much loved old bike?
(When is it time to retire a bike?)
A good Reynolds steel frame will probably outlast any of us if well treated.
Rust is an obvious problem once you get water and contaminants on bare metal. But it's fairly clear and easily prevented and or removed.
Fatigue cracking is much less of a problem on steel frames - but a quick check over each tube, especially at and near joints will alert you to that. If you have ridden for a while you would probably notice when riding(creaks and different feel)
@MatthewNewell @ascentale @Cyclist @bikenite
I concur. Obvious signs of rust should be checked, and look closely around the lugs.
I found this on my 1988 Raleigh Corsa a few years ago which relegated it to the turbo.
(dent in the down tube is from a crash in 1989, which I remember was on the day of the Pau stage because I was gutted I had to get a broken wrist put in plaster and missed Martin Earley winning it!)
Phil (ascentale)
Matthew Newell
David S