Originally Posted by
due ruote
I'm sure it's a cool old bike. Steel frame? Probably would be a blast for local rides, depending on where you live.
I don't think it would be a good use of funds to upgrade it. There aren't many good choices for 27" tires, but Paselas are respectable. I would throw a pair on, tune it up and call it good.
Personally, although I am a C&V guy, I would want something lighter and stiffer for touring, especially someplace with lots of vertical.
Fwiw, we recently purchased a 2004 Cannondale with 9 speed drivetrain and disc brakes for not much more than you are looking at. Depending on your local market, there are deals to be had.
I'm just starting in tandems, as well. I bought an unbuilt steel Meridian frame and am now (among other projects) sorting through how to build it. I'm getting a lot of help from the seller, a good and old friend. But if I had found the bike you are talking about, I would have pounced. Also a C&V guy, I can thoroughly deal with all the old parts and tires issues. And I'm 99.9% sure the integrity of the frame is good, if there are no visible issues.