Originally Posted by
SweetLou
I like fixed and I hate cats, so I guess I will have to build another one. But, I am little more subdued than this guy. I just take off the components, shorten the chain and correct the chainline. Oh, and get a fixed or a flip flop hub.
I've been thinking about building a new one. I want one with braze-ons for a rack so I can more easily ride it to work. And probably a little lower gearing, since yesterday when I turned onto the bridge over the Rocky River, I had a head wind that just about stopped me. I think lower gearing would be good for windy days.
The trouble is finding the right frame. I need one with rack braze-ons and not downtube shifter braze-ons or built for cantilever brakes. I don't remove anything from the frames so I really don't want these braze-ons just sticking out.
Sounds like we see eye-eye on most of what you posted here. Schwinn Travelers from the mid 80's, Peugeot U-08's, and Raleigh Grand Prix's from the 70's are three models that convert reasonably cleanly. They don't have the rack braze-ons, but there are plenty running around with Pletscher racks stuck on them. I think the Grand Prix is the better choice of the three - since it has neither shifter bosses, nor derailleur hanger (although it does have cable guides).
If sykerocker's fixed gear project will have people screaming, mine will probably have the mobs out with pitchforks and flaming torches (although I won't be chopping anything off, or causing permanent damage to a frame). I'm keeping it under my hat until it's ready.