Hi all,

First post in this forum and would like to get the wisdom of the group on a potential xtracycle build. I'm thinking about picking up a FreeRadical kit and do a budget build for the 'haul' bike.

Components available in the shed include:

24" Raleigh Super Course frame, straight gauge 531 (1968)
26" wheel with 1990's 8 speed Nexus hub with roller brake
27" front wheel, CR-18 rim

Questions for the group:

1. Has anyone built up a xtracycle with a 27" or 700c wheel in the front and a 26" wheel in the back? I'm thinking of running a Big Apple in the back and the widest possible tire on the front. Any thoughts on how the handling be affected? Crank arm clearance issues?

2. Is an early 70's road frame too whippy for the free radical kit? It's straight gauge tubing. I plan on a max load of around a 150 lbs. Rear spacing is only 126 mm however. I believe xtracycle sells a kit to address this.

3. Rear roller brake rear and Weinmann 666 front, am I asking for trouble? Trips will be around town with a few gradual hills.

4. I might be able to mount a 26" wheel on the front with a long reach caliper. is this a better option than a 27" wheel?

Any thoughts are appreciated!