Originally Posted by
desconhecido
The Sprite, if it's like the one we have, came with 27" wheels and there are, as far as I know, not any wide tires in 27". So, I doubt if the tires that you have on there are wider or bigger round than what these bikes should easily handle.
It may be that the wheel needs to sit farther back in the dropouts. Probably, you should install the wheel so that the axle on the right side is as far back as it can go, limited by the derailleur claw. Then, adjust the position of the axle on the left so that the tire is about centered up there around the fender. If the wheel is about true, that should do it.
We have one of those Sprites from 1974 and it's a decent, rugged bike. It was an inexpensive ten speed in 74, and it's still ok and durable. I know exactly what the rear nutted axle/hub that you are using looks like. Personally, I find a hollow QR axle much more to my liking and our Sprite has QRs front and rear. Also, aluminum rims, which is a considerable improvement as compared to the steel rims that the bike came with.
Thanks for the suggestion. Mine is a 77 Sprite, so our bikes are closely related. You're right, I didn't pay enough attention to the right dropout and the axel was just
slightly not flush with the back and that was enough to cause some issues. Also, I don't think the wheel is perfectly trued and with the tolerances I have, it's made it difficult.
The other thing I noticed, and this should get me space I need, is that the fender on the bottom right is not perfectly flush with the frame. Tonight I'll bend the fender out so that it sits flush and I think that will solve any issues I may have. I was able to bend it out a little and already there was no more rubbing but I'd like it flush so any wiggle from hitting bumps doesn't cause them to come back.
And yes, it's a great around town bike. I got it for the same price as a disposable bike from Walmart and while far from a high end bike even in its day, it's a great ride. A little finicky to shift at times but if I can resolve the rubbing permanently, this bike will get plenty of riding time!