I have really liked the new market coming out geared towards commuting/utility bikes in the form of the step through, dutch style bikes. I like the concept of a European styled city bike with upright positioning but would rather build up my own off an old frame with more modern parts.

Here is what I am thinking:

"Step-Through” frame- more than likely a Schwinn Suburban
Internal gear hub- more than likely a 3-speed with coaster brake
Front Dynohub to run generator lights
A rear rack made by Revelation Cycling here in Columbus
Brooks Saddle on a BioLogic Zorin seat post pump
650b wheel set
Deciding on a front basket or a CETMA rack
Handlebars will be in the spirt of the North Road 3-speed bars
Possibly changing the fork to run front disk brakes

The old Schwinn frame seems to be the best bet: bomb proof and dime a dozen to the point that I am not really going to destroy or significantly alter a collectors item. Am I going to get raked over the coals using a frame like that for this project? Any suggestions?

Some more of my thoughts on this can be found here.