Originally Posted by
jeepr
I just picked up an 81 Schwinn Super Sport. It looks like it would make an awesome 650b conversion. You would need an early eighties one because they changed the geometry more towards racing. But it is fairly relaxed geometry, Champion #2 tubing, front and rear racks, triple chainring, Tange headset, Cyclone derailleurs, Superbe shifters.
Mine would probably need new brakes, but I just saw one from 83 (or 84) that had center-pull brakes that looked like they had plenty of reach.
I've had two '81 Super Sports in the stand. The first thing that crossed my mind was that they'd be ripe for 650B. I believe the rear spacing is 120mm, though (maybe not, but it came with a 5sp freewheel). I popped a front 650B wheel with a Col de la Vie installed (38mm). Plenty of clearance in the fork and it looked like an extra long reach Tektro would work well. The issue will be at the chainstays with a fender and a 42mm tire. I'm not sure whether she'll take it or not.
Here's one I built up for a friend with 700C x 32mm (actually measure about 30mm) Pasela TGs.
