I converted a Schwinn Varsity to a baby carrier bike and off road thrasher with new aluminum wheels and 35mm tires. I forget if i stuck with the original brakes and 27" wheels or went to 700c and made brake accomodations. i think I went to 700x35 and might have changed one of the brakes. Either way sticking with steel rims is a big mistake. You don't need a drum brake, just well adjusted brakes and good aluminum wheels.