Bicycle Mechanics - V-Brakes for 26" to 700c Conversion

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Bezalel
08-01-10, 12:38 AM
I'm interested in replacing a set of 26" wheels with 700c wheels. I already did a Frame/Pedal fit and everything clears, the only trouble I am having is finding affordible brakes that have a long reach. The only brakes that I found so far were the Paul Moto BMX (http://www.paulcomp.com/motobmx.html) but these are not in my budget. Additionally I found a Mavic Caliper Brake Adjuster (http://www.mavic.com/mtb/products/caliper-brake-adjuster.323944.3.aspx) but I'd rather have a longer brake (if possible).
Are there any other solutions for this issue? I am willing to convert to cantilever brakes if nessasary.
Retro Grouch
08-01-10, 06:23 AM
My fixed gear conversion started life as a mountain bike with 26" wheels. By a happy coincidence the distance from the reflector mounting hole to a 700c brake surface was exactly right to fit a 105 standard reach road caliper.
HillRider
08-01-10, 06:41 AM
The radial difference between a 26" MTB and a 700c road rim is 31.5 mm or 1-1/4". That's way too much for most V-brakes to reach so your options are limited. Apparently the Paul brakes are specifically claimed to allow this conversion but at $250/set I can see you problem with them. Also, raising the brake pads that far has got to compromise their leverage and, therefore, their power.
The Mavic converter seems like the only sensible way yo go unless, as RG discovered, the crown hole in your fork is positioned to allow a regular sidepull caliper to work. However, that only solves the front brake problem. You will still need something else for the rear brake.
fietsbob
08-01-10, 10:46 AM
Your budget, as you say, suggests you leave it as is.
you will also change several other things , unless the wheel OD is the same
(fat 26 to skinny 700c ) the BB moves off the ground too . and handling gets strange.
It's probably best to acquire another bike rather than convert what you have to something else.
badamsjr
08-01-10, 11:31 AM
I agree with the above--by the time you get all the parts and pieces to convert this frame, you could have gotten a 700c frame. Sounds like the perfect excuse for N+1!
Bezalel
08-01-10, 02:25 PM
Thank you for your responses. I already have the 700c wheels as leftovers from another project and these are better than the existing 26" wheels. If I do go through with this conversion I'll probably use the Mavic adapters. I just wanted to know what other options I had before starting the project.
fietsbob
08-01-10, 04:02 PM
N + 1, indeed.. A proper sized UJB frame will take care of the situation..
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