Originally Posted by
pressed001
The next step being considered is conversion for disc brakes. V-brakes is the one factor which is preventing me from installing some top quality wheels. Maybe we can change this? What I will do later today is take a 26" disc wheel with 160mm rotor and see if it will fit. If the rotor has enough room I will speak with the shop about 1) cold setting the frame for the 135mm hub, 2) welding a disc brake mount on, and 3) welding further structural support onto the seat/chain stays. Preferably long slender "fins" which won't be an eyesore.
Eh I wouldn't. Maybe you could find a disc front fork. Seems like you could find a frame visually identical, with quality steel and disc ready on a market place for the cost of modifying this Marin. Plus I'd spend that money on making this bike look 110% again.
I'm surprised the rear isn't already spaced at 135mm?
Anyway what a gorgeous machine! I'd fix it up and submit a picture to gmbn's Dirt Shed Show, they'll go bonkers over that old Marin!