These issues might have been approached in different threads but it could be of common interest to sum them up.
I need your opinions on how to get lower (wider) gearing on a couple of old road bikes at a reasonable cost keeping/using as many period components as possible without being anal about it.
(As for now my bikes are late 70's early 80's Chesini (5-speed spaced 120 mm) & Garlatti (6-speed spaced 126 mm) w Nuovo record/Gran Sport)
With lower gearing I mean gain ratios from app. 2.5 to 7.7.
N.B: I need new chains and (preferrably) sprockets anyway.
Since I have quite a few separate questions I will number them as they appear.
Firstly, and this might be an obvious one, but I'm new to this:
1. Where to find a campagnolo freewheel remover? I've searched eBay, and a lot of online shops (like Harris Cyclery) with no results other than one for $200(!!!). That is just not an option.
2. A 2 prong freewheel puller for Dura-Ace 1976? Same as above?
3. Are there substitutes that could work with some grinding (of the puller!
)?
Now the gearing issues. Thing is I want to
ride these bikes, not hang them on the wall, and would really need lower gears for versatility. Lowest now is 42/18.
4. Could I get this downgearing either by e.g. a Shimano Megarange set (14 - 16 - 18 - 21 - 24 - 34) or a triple crank set with a small granny?
5. What would be the consequences of either of these in terms of replacement chain reactions?
6. Wouldn't the triple crank set be cheapest way, with only the front derailer (and bottombracket?) to be replaced for one with bigger capacity? Are there any period italian alternatives here? (Could live with a modern replacement though, as front derailers are quite discreet).
7. Is the Campy Rally an alternative for period Italian rear derailer with enough capacity for the Megarange strategy? Any other?
8. If rebuilding wheels to get clincher rims (now tubular-not an option): cassette freehub or freewheel hub? Will I find a good freehub of 120-130 mm spacing?
9. Anyone done anything similar to the above, or seen it done?
Thank's a lot for reading this far!
Any input is greatly appreciated.