80's vs 2019: The
Revolutionary Modifications

The Frame Serial Numbering System

The original frame numbering system used in the 1980's was very simple to follow, allowing both the date and manufacturing location of a bike to be identified easily. 

Each digit was carefully selected, following a set format. The first letter situated on the Burners' frame represented the initial of the location of manufacture. 

The second symbol denoted the month of manufacture with a range from A-S, with A representing January and S corresponding to December. However, it must be noted how the letters follow an irregular pattern and are not in alphabetical order- we always like to stand out and be different at Raleigh!

The third figure symbolised the year of manufacture, with digits ranging from 0-9, for instance 3 signified the year 1973. However, after ten years it was accepted that duplication would occur, therefore identifying primarily which model of burner is key.

The stamp locations on the frame will confirm this. With the MK1 Burner, the number is situated on the back of the frames seat tube. This contrasts with the MK2 and other Raleigh models, whereby the frame number is stamped on the base of the bottom bracket.

The serial numbers final digits differed depending on the quantity that was manufactured per month at any location and could only be up to a maximum of 6 digits ranging from 000000 to 999999.

So, for example a frame number of NE46725 would indicate that a Burner was made in Nottingham in April 1984 and 6725 was the quantity that was manufactured that month.

The new re-imagined MK1 Raleigh Super Tuff Burner uses a similar frame serial numbering system, but differs slightly in terms of the third symbol which deviates from the guidelines, with the number 19 not ranging between 0-9. So why was the figure 19 used you may ask? This was to symbolise the current release year of the new Super Tuff Burner- yes we just thought it would be easier! 

The first symbol still follows the original serial numbering system whereby T is used to represent the location of manufacture, which was Taiwan, and the N is present to symbolise October- the month of release.

Specification Changes

The original 80’s Super Tuff Burner's bottom bracket was extremely high, it also had a very short top tube combined with a more relaxed head and seat angles, perfect for that 13-year-old you, but 35 years later possibly not. 

Whereas, the re-imagined Super Tuff Burner now features the more racy geometry of the Aero Pro, with a longer top tube and more precise steering.

When we started the project, we created Solid Works CAD drawings- taking both tubing shapes and diameters from the MK1 and using the geometry from the Aero Pro. 

Once the drawings were completed, we then modelled a 3D rendered visual to gain a complete view of how the re-imagined Super Tuff Burner would look in final production.

We've also replicated the original gold super chrome plated finish as closely as possible, using a translucent gold lacquer over a chrome plated finish. The welding compared to the original Burner was also significantly improved.