What to do......

[mascott]

I have just bought an old Dawes Super Galaxy Tandem in not too bad condition for £100. The brakes and gears need overhaul. I am not used to working on bikes but want to learn and i have a really good LBS if required.
is it possible to put disc brakes on this bike? I guess i would need new wheels

can i combine them with STI brake/shifters

would you bother or not?

thanks for any advice
mark

[Rincewind8]

Does the frame and fork have disc brake mounts?

Avid BB7 mechanical disc brakes come in a road version that is compatible with drop bar brake levers.

[zonatandem]

Retrofiting an old Dawes with discs?
Asides from having a new fork with disc capability you'll also need a disc mount brazed to rear. Then the disc wheels and the actual disc brakes . . . you may even have to respace the rear dropout opening to the proper disc wheel width.
Upgrading to STI would still be a bit pricey, but not everyone wants STI.
We switched back from Dura Ace STI triple 9 speed to barcon shifters . . . less problematic/fussy ****ing for us.
Leave well enough alone, would not bother. Enjoy this tandem, then later on invest in a new one with the disc capabilties/frame.

[mascott]

Thanks....
I thought it might be too much to get the disc brakes. the drum brake will need overhaul,
i think you are right, get brakes/gears done and see how we get on. i am used to the STI shifters on my specialized so I might go for them.
Off to LBS for some advice

[ElRey]

this would not be a good way to learn basic mechanics. Try changing the brake pads/chain/tires, servicing the bottom bracket, adjusting the derailleurs first.

[mascott]

cheers
LBS is going to look at it and let me know what needs doing and then i can pick and choose which bits to do myself