Originally Posted by
Flyboy718
What are some good vintage rigid frames to build from? I know nothing about building so all new to me. I have an mid 80's Schwinn Mesa Runner I got for free but have read that it was bottom line. Scrap components and look for same period but better components? Or look for a particular frame on local CL? I am 6'2" so a frame to fit is gonna be hard...I ride a 25" road bike. I see A LOT of seats sitting way up on these MTB builds...I guess that is compensating for a smaller frame?
If it fits you, I would suggest that you build up you Mesa Runner. First strip it down the bare frame. Visit Sheldon Brown's website, do some measurements: make sure the frame is straight, and measure the O.L.D. Decide what you want/need in the way of components. For example, Shimano's TX-55 is a very functional rear derailleur that if you don't have a crash or lay the bike down on the right side, will last many thousands of miles. Are you going to build your own wheels? Tires: I'd suggest 40-559 Kevlar belted tires with thorn resistant tubes.
My current favorite commuter is a Schwinn PDG70 (Paramount Design Group). It is not really a touring bike, no eyelets, but I have fenders and a long Ibera seat post rack with small Avenir panniers. The Schwinn Cimarron is really an on/off road touring bike. The lugged ('93 and earlier) Trek 930/950/970/990 are great starting points. The GT's, not so much because they tend to have shorter wheelbase which if you have bigger feet leads to heel strike issues with conventional rear racks and panniers.