Mixed rims
 

I have a 27x1.25 rim in the front that's just fine, but I need to replace my rear rim. I want to switch to 700x32c rims, however I'm just a broke college kid. Is it okay to replace just the rear rim and leave the front as 27in?

Yes, except that with the slightly smaller rear wheel you'll be riding uphill all the time.

Actually there's isn't any issue. The smaller rear wheel will have the bike tilted back about 4mm, but that's anything you'll ever notice. Many riders use different width tires front and back, and I've never heard of anybody noticing the tilt it causes.

However, before you spend a penny, make sure your brake shoes will reach another 4mm lower on both brakes (planning for the future). Otherwise your effort to save some dough can end up being a bit costly.

Already checked that by putting the 700c wheels from my other bike on and made sure they would work. Thanks for your help!

please keep it vintage 27" for the Love of C&V. you should be able to find one for $50 somewhere. A lot on ebay are overpriced now that they are becoming rare even though most are inferior to 700c tech. I was lucky to snag a set on ebay for under 150 total with record hubs and double wall rims.

C&V is typically the provence of those with time, money and a sense of historical accuracy. It's not the hobby of broke college kids! Even assuming the bike has any historical significance, and I'll bet it doesn't as there were tons of cheap water pipe bikes with 27" wheels, the OP could always reinstall a "period correct" wheel in the future.

why does one need money for a cheap water pipe bike wheels? there are plenty of hoarders out there with one of those wheels available. http://minneapolis.craigslist.org/ram/bid/3170273951.html


he should be able to find one for plenty cheap.

I have one like that sitting in my garage right now.
Nobody notices until it's pointed out to them.

The front brakes don't quite have the reach and it has a narrower then the normal 100MM fork spacing.
Just not worth the effort, although I might dig up a 27" alloy rim to replace the steel one.