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03-26-07, 01:49 PM
Okay folks, i need some advice. I have an older Bridgestone Kabuki SMD road bike that i'd like to upgrade and get back on the road. I know people have mixed opinions on the bike, especially with the non-traditional seat post and construction methods. But, knowing that we all have a common interest in cycling, you might be able to offer some mechanical help.
Question 1: I am considering changing the five-speed freewheel to a seven-speed freewheel. Can i simply redish and respace the wheel, or would that cause too much stress on the spokes? I am on a pretty tight budget, and would like to stick with the stock wheelset, which is a freewheel design.
Question 2: Is a standard five-speed freewheel about the same size as a seven-speed freewheel, or does the seven-speed need more room between the droppouts?
Question 3: The Bridgestone Kabuki is built with steel tubing, however, it uses cast aluminum "lugs," from what i've read. Would it be possible to 'cold set' the frame if more room is needed, or would that cause too much stress on the 'lugs'?
Thanks in advance for any help, and keep riding!
Question 1: I am considering changing the five-speed freewheel to a seven-speed freewheel. Can i simply redish and respace the wheel, or would that cause too much stress on the spokes? I am on a pretty tight budget, and would like to stick with the stock wheelset, which is a freewheel design.
Question 2: Is a standard five-speed freewheel about the same size as a seven-speed freewheel, or does the seven-speed need more room between the droppouts?
Question 3: The Bridgestone Kabuki is built with steel tubing, however, it uses cast aluminum "lugs," from what i've read. Would it be possible to 'cold set' the frame if more room is needed, or would that cause too much stress on the 'lugs'?
Thanks in advance for any help, and keep riding!