Protar Team Pro 1982 TI-Raleigh 753 Scale Model – New Arrival

I know there have been a few new SBDU frames coming through my door lately, but this is slightly different, this is not another addition to my collection of SBDU bikes… however, it is a very welcome new arrival.

It is in fact a beautifully made and detailed scale model of a TI-Raleigh Team Pro 753, just like my own SB4059, and I’ve been looking for this exact kit for sometime. Unfortunately they rarely appear for sale and because of that rarity they are often snapped up immediately. So if you want one you have to be very quick! This time I was.

I’m truly amazed by the small detail in this kit – it is extremely accurate and has lots of small intricate parts; I’m going to have to devote some time to looking through the instructions. It even comes with its own bike shop style display stand! The kit is made by Protar Micro Modelli Provini, more well known for their classic motor cycle models in 1:9 scale.

The level of detail goes right down to the smallest parts, even the frame decals are a wonderful miniature replica of the real thing. Not only are they remarkably detailed, they are fully period correct for a 1982 SBDU Team Pro in the TI-Raleigh colour scheme.

Here it is, the all important frame. In fact all the metal parts including frame, forks, handlebars, cranks… there is even a metal bottom bracket axle in there.

So the frame looks like it needs a good clean and file before paint – just like the real thing would. There also appears to be enough parts in the kit to have 2 different build options, 1 of them being Campagnolo Super Record. Handlebar tape, brake lever rubber hoods and cables are all supplied.

I must admit that the prospect of lacing these tiny spokes into their tiny rims is a little daunting, I’m certainly going to have to get my glasses out so I can see what I’m doing, maybe even a magnifying glass too – my eyes sadly aren’t what they used to be.

It’s not what I would normally collect but the subject matter really demanded that I bought it. Could this be the start of a memorabilia collection..?