Originally Posted by Michel Gagnon
You could then spread the frame to 126 mm and install a 7-speed Shimano freewheel or get a new wheel with a 7-speed cassette. It would then be compatible with 8-speed STI... providing you get a rear derailleur that is newer than 1996-1997. 15 and 20 year old derailleurs don't pull the same amount of cable (believe me, I have one at home).
That's just not right.All shimano index RDs beginning with 1985 with their first index system are intercompatible,except PRE 9 speed DA which have a unique throw ratio and have to be used with pre 9 speed DA shifters.