Schwinn LeTour
 

I have a LeTour that I would like to do some work on but am having some problems finding and understanding what parts to buy. I am familiar with the newer components but not too familiar with the older compnents. It's 6-speed with original Suntour components with downtube shifters. I basically use it to get around town with but it needs some work.
The rear axle is bent and while I could replace the axle I am going to build a whole new wheelset. When I rebuilt the hubs I noticed that axle was bent but since it is my only bike I needed to use it the next day to get to work. Since I have been riding bent axle and I have noticed some grinding so I figure that the hub is probably shot. I have a set of NOS UKAI 36 hole tubulars that I may or may not use for the build the problem is I can't find a set of 126mm hubs. I thought about just using some Pyramid hubs but am confused by the different "guages" that I see listed. I don't understand what "guage" refers to. Could anyone recommend a set of rear hubs to use for the build? I have seen some by Bulletproof but I really don't know anything about older equipment and finding replacement parts for older bikes. There is only one bike shop around here and they really don't seem to know what they are talking about either. I want to keep the bike as a 6-speed with the original shifters because it's a great bike.

bump

Anyone? Where's Bob when we need him?

East Hill

The hub maybe fine, maybe the cone nuts are just too tight, or the bearings are dry and need to be regreased. If you've been riding on a hub with dried out grease long enough chances are the bearings are have become shot.. ive seen bearings turn into sand almost. Replacements shouldnt be difficult to find if thats the case, bring in the dead sample to your LBS. Open her up and take a look before buying anything you dont really need!

If it's just the axle I'm sure I can scrounge one from my parts table.

Marty

I'd look for high flange Schwinn Approved hubs (relatively cheap) on ebay, or consider this Shimano UG hub offered by Loose Screws. http://www.loosescrews.com/index.cgi...id=24066665831 It is spaced at 126mm so it's the correct size. You would also need to buy a UG cassette (also carried by Loose Screws). I have found my 6 speed UG set up to be very reliable on my Schwinn Traveler. Are you certain you want to run tubulars on a LeTour? Just my 2 cents worth of opinion, tubulars would be too high end for a LeTour and possibly not practical if this is your primary "ride around town bike." Good luck and I hope this is helpful.

Thanks for all the responses, gentlemen.

East Hill

Thanks for all of the replies. I checked out the Loose Screws website and I they have exactly that type of components I have been looking for. I don't know if I am going to use the tubular rims but they have been calling my name for a long time, just asking to please be built up. Right now I have a mismatched set of wheels with Sekai hubs that have seen their better day. I might be able to salvage the wheels just replacing parts but I have been having this wierd craving to build up a set of wheels lately. Once again thanks for the help, it is much appreciated.