Vintage cranksets and modern drivetrains
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Vintage cranksets and modern drivetrains
I'm in the middle of plotting and planning a mixed vintage/modern build… I wanted an old school steel frame and wound up with the frame and fork of what I think is a 531 Jeunet (yes, French). Started reading through some interesting threads here and elsewhere and am leaning strongly in the direction of trying to be true to the spirit of the thing while still allowing myself some modern conveniences.
The 9-speed years seem to be the last time things were bright and shiny and I figure I need to stop at square spindles, what with the French threading. I've been looking mostly at Ultegra (or maybe Centaur), probably 9-speed, for derailleurs and hubs.
Can I run a T.A. Cyclotouriste crankset with a 9-speed chain without coming to grief? I was thinking about running it as a 54/40 double. Anything else I should be aware of or thinking about?
Since I'm in over my head I'm guessing there will be more questions down the road.
Thanks…
The 9-speed years seem to be the last time things were bright and shiny and I figure I need to stop at square spindles, what with the French threading. I've been looking mostly at Ultegra (or maybe Centaur), probably 9-speed, for derailleurs and hubs.
Can I run a T.A. Cyclotouriste crankset with a 9-speed chain without coming to grief? I was thinking about running it as a 54/40 double. Anything else I should be aware of or thinking about?
Since I'm in over my head I'm guessing there will be more questions down the road.
Thanks…
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Purists on here object to a wholesale makeover. My view is whatever suits your needs. You aren't changing the frame, just the parts. No reason you can't enjoy modern conveniences. On vintage bikes, it can be argued the biggest cost-effective upgrade is a lighter alloy wheelset. That will make a significant difference in how they handle.
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You might have some problem with the chain falling between the chainrings. If you can accept an 8-speed drivetrain you'll probably have better luck.
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can I add my two cents? as far as the TA crankset you may ant to consider Campi ergo. I think that will give the best results as the shifter does not have fixed spots for the derailuer. (shimano may work the same but the ones I used to work on were not as forgiving)
and I agree about shinny things. all this black and carbon finish is getting boring and uninsiring.
and I agree about shinny things. all this black and carbon finish is getting boring and uninsiring.
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“One morning you wake up, the girl is gone, the bikes are gone, all that's left behind is a pair of old tires and a tube of tubular glue, all squeezed out"
Sugar "Kane" Kowalczyk
“One morning you wake up, the girl is gone, the bikes are gone, all that's left behind is a pair of old tires and a tube of tubular glue, all squeezed out"
Sugar "Kane" Kowalczyk