juvela and verktyg, you guys are awesome!

I'll check the stem but admit I took it out for a 35km ride today to see how it ran and decide on a gear combination I like. The chain line is terrible with lots of front rubbing and skipping under pressure in both low and high chain rings. It only confirms my desire to make it a single speed. The goal will be a stock club style SS bike, keeping the fenders and adding period wire bottle cages, pump and saddle bag. I have a great area for Sunday rides that I like to get the wool jersey and knickers out for once in a while

Now another question if possible.

The chain rings are 52 / 30-something that are riveted together. If I don't want to destroy it (I like to keep parts I take off in case someone else wants to restore it later on) I'll have to swap it out for a period correct (in appearance) replacement. However, That big chain ring (also the one connected to the crank) is too big!

I have read that persnickety French axles won't take English cottered cranks. Is it so in this case and, if so, are there any easily sourced standard cranks that will fit? Something in the 35T or so range.

Ps. The ride was great. The bars are the narrowest I've used yet but oddly comfortable. They just need some better tape than the hockey style currently on them. Fortunately I am well stocked in French Shellac.