Originally Posted by
notfrench
To convert from 27" wheels, to 700c, you'd have to find long-reach brakes.
Also, I'd say $100 is probably a fair price for a UO-8 in Chicago, and if you wait, you probably find one in better condition.
I've converted a couple of Peugeots to 700c wheels with no problem. The Mafac Racer brakes already are long (enough) reach for 700c. You only have to loosen and slide the pads down.
I think the seller should have taken the bike to SF. He could sell it in a few hours for more. I saw a number of $300 Peugeots in the sfbay cl last weekend.
Also, having fixed up and/or converted (one fixie, one ss) five mid-70's Peugeots, I think they're worth it. And I picked up a sixth one yesterday. Everyone says parts are hard to get, and I can't argue, but after rebuilding multiple headsets, bottom brackets, and hubs (this weekend), I found I didn't needed to replace these old parts. I've got a busted pulley on one rd, but that seems solvable.
Old Peugeots are kind of cool, and I like the way they ride.
I do agree, however, that an 70/80s Japanese bike would be a great way to go.