Originally Posted by
FBinNY
Most dropouts have enough slot depth in comparison to the locknut face diameter to allow 2mm shimming with zero overhang at the bottom. It's certainly something to check, but as long as any overhang is marginal or less, and the front of the axle at 3 o'clock is square to a vertical surface so that the chain cannot pull it forward, gravity will work with you to keep everything in place.
OK, I just wanted to be sure the OP doesn't shim the dropout depth too much in the interest of getting inappropriate tires for the frame to fit. I agree with the posters that recommended dropping back to 700x25 tires to avoid the problem.
Originally Posted by
FBinNY
Yes, getting the appropriate bike for any type of riding always makes sense and is usually better than having to modify. But it isn't always practical. If starting fresh, buying right is the only smart way to go, but if one already has a bike, and doesn't wish to shell out for another, sometimes a bit of creative DIY allows expanded utility. If "go buy new" was always the advice we wouldn't need a forum, there's thousands of shops willing to give that advice, and be first in line to fulfill the need.
Sure, getting a new bike isn't always practical, financially or otherwise, but it's the best way if you can do it. Maybe even "buy used" is better advice.
I was making the point that you can't always make a given bike into something it was not designed to be and it will always be a compromise. Some compromises are acceptable and others are dangerous.