I have some wheels off another vintage roadbike in my garage. I am pretty sure there alloy. But the back wheel is toast but the front is good. And I have some 90's side-pulls. I might try them. The cables are fine. But the wheels are 26' not 27'. I think it's just because it's so old! well, atleast I am getting a new giant MTB for christmas so I can have something that stops. But don't worry, I won't give up on my ol' huffy!