Originally Posted by sced
1. I just bought a set of used 32h Nuovo Record hubs on Ebay and want to build tubular wheels. I weigh about 195 lbs and am a recreational rider. My understanding is that the new tubular rims are much stronger than the olds ones. Can I get away with 15 gage spokes, or should I use 14 gage or 14/15 double butted?
If your hubs are drilled for 14g, you must use either 14g or 14/15 spokes.
Originally Posted by sced
2. How does one convert a Nuovo Record rear hub from 120 to 126mm spacing? I had my frame cold set at 126 many years ago and put Athena hubs in it, and am wondering if I should just go back to a 5 speed freewheel.
Replace axle. Add 6mm right-side spacer. Increase dish by 3 mm.
Originally Posted by sced
3. What is the max tooth capability of a Nouvo Record rear derailleur? The area I live in is very hilly.
That depends on your drop in front, but lots of folks use 27, 28, or even more teeth on the low-gear cog.
Originally Posted by sced
4. Can newer Record index-shifting derraileurs be used with friction shifters (w/o indexing)?
Yes.
Originally Posted by sced
5. Can newer alloy Record (10 speed?) cranks be used with Nuovo Record bottom brackets and older 5, 6, 7 speed chains? If not, about when did the compatibility end? On Ebay, a lot of the old Record is dearer than most of the newer Record.
I strongly suspect they will. Worst-case, you might need to replace one or both chainrings, but I anticipate no problems. Putting narrow chains over fat cogs is a whole different matter.
Originally Posted by sced
6. Can the old Nuovo Record brakes be made to stop better, by using newer pads?
Install new cables, new housings, and KoolStop salmon pads, but this still may not be enough. Frankly, I am still not satisfied with the early NR brakes on my Bianchi, even though they
look gorgeous and very appropos.
Originally Posted by sced
8. Any other suggestions for making my olde ride a dream on the road?
Nope, it already is!