Hey,

I'm wanting to get a new freewheel for my 82/83 Guerciotti. I can't climb in the mountains with my Regina 13-21. It's just ridiculous

I'm not terribly concerned with getting a true vintage one, can't seem to find a climbing one anyway. Harris Cyclery sells IRD freewheels and I am eyeballing those now.

My question is what is the approximate time line of 5-6-7-speed freewheels. Should I get a 5 Speed for my '83 or did they have 6 by then?

I'll add to that, what did people use back in the day to climb? I don't see many vintage 5 speed freewheels with a 26 or 28 cog though I imagine they had to exist. I understand that the NR derailleur on my bike is rated to a 26 but some people have managed to get a 28 to work. I think a 26 would be ok for me but the 28 would really sweeten the ride.

Regards.