Bicycle Mechanics - Older frames, fd braze-ons....and mounting a triple.

While admiring a mid-1990's Basso frame on eBay I lost it to a "Buy It Now" bidder. At the time I was wondering whether a 90's, pre-compact Italian frame would have a braze-on fd tab positioned and with enough of an adjustment slot so it would allow for use of a triple. I would like to buy such a frame and, if possible, use a triple or even a compact. What are my chances?

It probably doesn't have a braze on tab. If you really want one though, you might be able to find an LBS to braze one on for you. It's not really necessary though, you can probably track down a clamp on triple or find a braze-on tab adapter. If you wanna find an adapter or braze a tab on, you can just specify what exactly you want.

I don't think braze-on FDs came on the scene until later. If you want to use a triple braze on FD, you can get an adapter clamp.

If it happens to have a braze-on fd fitting, these are usually set for a 52 or 53T large chainring and can probably be adjusted to allow a 50T big ring with proper clearance. Smaller than that and you are likely out of luck.

The triple/double issue is more related to bottom bracket length and chainstay clearance for the inner ring.

I think the OP is asking if a traditional Italian steel frame already with a braze-on fd tab could be used with the usual Shimano-like 30-39-50 triple crank. Probably assumes chain stay clearance. Most Italian frames of that time probably were thinking of a 53/39 double.......and probably no compact. I'm curious myself.

Not a problem. I have an 89 Greg Lemond with a braze-on and it works with a double, compact, and triple wit no problems. If you have any problems with the braze-on tab not allowing a good adjustment it might be a bent tab. Good luck.