So I inherited an old Velosolex frame, perfect candidate for a conversion. I was originally afraid of the prospective sizing issues, but I managed to get most of it sourced on the cheap. The 25.6 seatpost, the cheapo headset that needed a cup or two switched, even the stem turned out to be a simple 1”. I was really on a role, until I met the bottom bracket. I decided to piece one together, and found a French fixed cup in great shape. I found a generic adjustable cup and lockring, and ordered up some bearings… the issue has been the spindle… I have a pair of Sugino Rd cranks, which take a 103mm bottom bracket. Unfortunately, the only cost efficient matching unit is the Shimano sealed BB, which is English threaded.

-Is there any fat chance in hell of me finding a 103mm spindle, that will fit these cranks?

-Despite the fixed cup side being right-threaded, is it worth jamming the Shimano unit in there and calling it a day?

-Can I re-tap the shell to make it English?

-I have a 111mm Suntour spindle… is there a cheapish crankset that will fit that?


HALP.