Ok. So-

I'm acquiring a Bendix 2-speed Kickback hub. In pieces. From a BF member.

Let's assume, just for a minute, I get it back together and working. What do I build it into? My ideas:

Frame: I have a 1983 Raleigh Marathon that was wrecked; chain broke, derailleur caught in the spokes, pulled the hanger to an awful angle, and the dropout opened up some, too. I like the frame and think I can close up the dropout and cut off the hanger and use that frame. If not, I have a similar vintage Centurion Accordo, and a slightly newer Nishiki frame, all in my size. If I use one of those other frames, I'll probably do a really garish rattlecan repaint.

Wheels: Not sure what size.... what are the considerations for 27" vs. 700C vs. 650B? I will probably be running 1-1/4" or 32 mm tires, most likely Schwalbe Marathons of some ilk, maybe even cream colored. I hope to build my own wheels for this, the rear around the Bendix and the front, maybe, around the high-flange (Normandy?) hub that came on my '73 Schwinn Varsity.

Crank: I have a generic crankset I was going to build into a FG at some point, but I will probably use it for this instead. I will probably get a colored 1/8' chain for the build.

Headset & Fork: I'll stick with what I have- threaded headset & fork on the the frames I have.

Seat: The Brooks B72 that came on my Raleigh DL-1 ripped and I replaced it. But it has a doubler underneath, so the load-bearing part of the seat is still intact, just the skirt is ripped. I am going to try trimming the skirts off and salvaging that seat.

Handlebars: Thinking about several possibilities here: Maybe some inverted bars to get the path racer look, maybe cut a set of drops into bullhorns. Or, perhaps I'll put on upright Northroad bars to get a townie look. If I go path racer, That will be it as far as additional accessories go- no fenders, no chainguard, etc. If I go townie I may add some of those to give it a classier look.

I will probably add a front brake depending on how well the Bendix brake works.

My goal is to have a simple runabout, something that looks like it was put together form scrap parts (which it largely will be), simple to maintain and fun to ride.

This is all just conceptual so far, considering what I have around and what I'd like to try. Waddya think? any ideas, suggestions?

700c is almost the same as 27", so if that's what you had originally, you can reuse the brakes. Er...brake. A front brake will give you a lot more stopping power.

650b will give you wider tire options for a softer ride.

I like the cut down B-72. For rim size, use what your brakes will fit. For handlebars, I prefer upside down Schwinn Cruisers
I did the math and found that for every 5mm the hub flange diameter changes the spoke length changes 1mm (if they're laced tangentally to the hub) so I've had good luck reusing spokes with hub swaps.

Oh, I really like a front brake. The Bendix brakes were about the best but chains do fall off sometimes and there is a grassy hill that I ride down on my commute. The back end just slides all the way.

I plan on using a front brake. Probably.

What did you use to trim the skirts, sailorbenjamin? Razor?