[chris hansen]

Hello,

I just aquired an old Schwinn LeTour from a family member. Would it be possible to set it up for cyclocross, at least until I decide if I like the sport enough to spend the money on a real cyclocross bike? What would need to be done? I don't know much about the bike, or LeTours in general, but I think it's 10-15 years old, cromoly frame, 27 inch wheels.

Thanks.

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[jfmckenna]

All you really need to set it up is enough clearence in your fork and rear triangle for larger tires probly up to at least 32. Cantilever brakes would be best too.

[brokenrobot]

Hello,

I just aquired an old Schwinn LeTour from a family member. Would it be possible to set it up for cyclocross, at least until I decide if I like the sport enough to spend the money on a real cyclocross bike? What would need to be done? I don't know much about the bike, or LeTours in general, but I think it's 10-15 years old, cromoly frame, 27 inch wheels.

Thanks.

You'll have no trouble getting bigger tires on it - I ran around all winter on one with Kenda 38mm cyclocross tires on it (though mine had the center-pull dual-pivot calipers on it... if yours has the single-pivot calipers, you may have a tighter fit). A lot of the old Schwinns had steel rims - if yours does, replace 'em with alloy straight away.

-chris

[chris hansen]

I tried the 700x35c wheels from my wifes hybride on the LeTour and it fit fine with a small brake pad adjustment.

One guy at the bike store said that the side pull brakes might not have enough stopping power. Do you think this would be a big problem? I've never felt like I didn't have enough stopping power but haven't raced before either.

Thanks.

[Grampy™]

I've never felt like I didn't have enough stopping power but haven't raced before either.



Get 'em good and wet and muddy and give them a try.....

[cyclodan]

Well if you want to find out if you like the sport give it a go. I have seen people start out on full suspension mountain bikes but be aware that hoisting that tank over barriers is not going to be much "fun". Braking with the old side pulls is definitely going to be sketchy. You might just be better off with a hardtail mountain bike.