Converting a 1980 Centurion Super Le Mans to 650B?
10-07-10, 09:14 PM
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Converting a 1980 Centurion Super Le Mans to 650B?
Hello all...
I have a bit to large for me 62cm Centurion Super le mans frame in my garage.
My thoughts were if I converted it to 700C it would be a better size for my 5'11 ape armed frame.
Tonight I was at a LBS that is hosting a going out of business sale. They are out of 700C wheels, but have 650b wheels at 60% off.
Would that be a viable conversion?
I have a bit to large for me 62cm Centurion Super le mans frame in my garage.
My thoughts were if I converted it to 700C it would be a better size for my 5'11 ape armed frame.
Tonight I was at a LBS that is hosting a going out of business sale. They are out of 700C wheels, but have 650b wheels at 60% off.
Would that be a viable conversion?
10-08-10, 01:56 AM
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My experience with Panasonics & Vistas of the early 80's is that top tubes stayed the same regardless of frame size. Centurion? Probably the same. I say go for the 650b!
10-08-10, 03:01 AM
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The late Sheldon Brown wrote an article on the benefits of 650B conversion. Its particularly suitable for older road bikes, especially French bikes.
It reduces standover height and it also gives the bike a cushier and more sure footed ride. I love 650B. Once you try it, you'll be a fan for life!
It reduces standover height and it also gives the bike a cushier and more sure footed ride. I love 650B. Once you try it, you'll be a fan for life!
10-08-10, 05:39 AM
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I have an 87 Cannondale I want to
Make 650b. If only I could find a set of wheels to test the fit
Make 650b. If only I could find a set of wheels to test the fit
10-08-10, 09:29 AM
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What size do you normally ride? That wheel swap is going to lower the standover by around 3/4 inch. I know I am a lot further away than 3/4 inch from fitting a 62cm frame, and I am 5-11 (with really short legs). And what tires do you plan to use? That could eat away at this 3/4 inch savings.
700c will save you even less, 4mm which is less than 1/4 inch.
But if you can borrow some wheels, that would be a good test for you. Of course, brake reach will need to change a lot, so it probably means new calipers.
700c will save you even less, 4mm which is less than 1/4 inch.
But if you can borrow some wheels, that would be a good test for you. Of course, brake reach will need to change a lot, so it probably means new calipers.
10-08-10, 09:44 AM
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No plans for tires yet, and I don't have any brakes (just the frame right now) so I'm looking at new calipers anyway.
My Motobecane is a 59.
I'll roll back down to the shop and see what they can do for me on the 650B wheels.
My Motobecane is a 59.
I'll roll back down to the shop and see what they can do for me on the 650B wheels.
10-08-10, 12:47 PM
#9
Wrench Savant
There is a guy locally who converted a 1980 Super Le Mans to 650B, and I have seen another online. It will work and they do look nice. However...
You will find that though the wheel diameter of 650B wheels are lesst than the 700/27's that are on it, the tires are also bigger such that you will likely only realize the top bar dropping about 1/2-1 cm. If it is too big now, it will be too big later.
If it were me, buy the wheels since they are sale, and then find the right frame.
You will find that though the wheel diameter of 650B wheels are lesst than the 700/27's that are on it, the tires are also bigger such that you will likely only realize the top bar dropping about 1/2-1 cm. If it is too big now, it will be too big later.
If it were me, buy the wheels since they are sale, and then find the right frame.
10-08-10, 01:19 PM
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+1 Tire choice can negate much of the lowering.
10-08-10, 03:02 PM
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What brakes would work going from 27" to 650b?
I've heard the Tektro R556 doesn't have enough reach. I've heard about using the Mafac Raid or BMX brakes, but does anyone know of others?
I've heard the Tektro R556 doesn't have enough reach. I've heard about using the Mafac Raid or BMX brakes, but does anyone know of others?
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