7 spd freewheels are narrower than 8.
But, there is very little difference between 8, 9, or 10. So width would not be a major reason to choose 8 over 10.
I'm running 9s on my bike using a Velocity Aerohead OC rim.
For a bit more robust, perhaps build your 8/9/10 spd wheel using the Velocity A23 Off Center rim.
Originally Posted by
timdow
The couple of hundred you can get for this bike selling it would be a nice down payment on a modern touring bike. If you do all you are considering, you will end up spending as much anyway.
The bike is a nice, moderate quality older Bianchi.
Not particularly "collectors value", but, unique. I don't see any reason not to do what one wishes with it, although there will obviously be a few compromises.