Originally Posted by
Pompiere
Off hand, the things on a Varsity that are different from a common 1980s Japanese frame are:
Stem is 21.1mm vs. 22.2mm.
Front derailleur mount (seat tube) is 1 inch vs. 1 1/8.
Brake reach is longer.
Brake levers are for a thinner handlebar.
Seat post is 7/8 inch vs. one of the many more common sizes.
I think the front axle may be smaller, too, so filing the dropout may be necessary to fit a new wheel.
Also, the weight of a Varsity will be nearly double that of a decent 1980's bike.
Originally Posted by
Wildwood
Mid-80's steel frames are best to work on. Commonality of parts is the main reason.
The Varsity will be heavy, pick something easier and more rewarding to ride after your efforts.
All of the above, I have a Kool Lemon '74 Varsity Deluxe with chrome fenders, it weighs 41 lbs.! I usually avoid them like the plague but it was a one owner in good shape for CHEAP or I would have passed on it too. In retrospect I wish I HAD passed on it.