90s Raleigh Canti to Disc Conversion
 

Hi folks,

I have an early 90s Raleigh MTB that I am considering converting to a winter commuter with IGH/drum rear and disc brakes up front.

Then and now:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4115/...cb49e916f8.jpghttp://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/...0b9047855b.jpg

The top nut on the threaded headset is stamped with "22.2". Am I to understand this to be the quill size, or the steerer tube size? I have never heard of a fork with a steerer tube that is less than 1" in diameter so I hope this refers to the quill size. I want to install a threadless 1" cromo fork with disc brake tabs with a new headset and stem. I just want to know if I'm on the right track here or if I'm stuck with the original fork, in which case I'd have to keep the cantis or use drum brakes up front (I'd really rather use discs).

22.2mm is the quill size for 1" threaded forks.

yes, you're on the right track. You'll need a 1" threadless headset, 1" steerer fork and a threadless stem. You'll also probably want a shim for the stem since all stems made currently are 1-1/8".

That's a lot of money to be dumping into a cheap old bike. Have you shopped around for a new one? I think it would be a better investment.

Yes, I have. I'm just weighing my options.