I have two, a panasonic, and a 1984 fuji del rey. I'm currently riding the panasonic with components carried over from the fuji, because I fell on my fuji and bent the frame at the seat stays. I used 2x4s and C-clamps to straighten the frame, and I think it's good to go. I mean you can still notice a 's' curvature if you look really hard, but I took to a LBS and they said it was fine.

anyways, I'm going to upgrade my fuji with new brakes, new brake levers, new al rims/tires, and maybe a new al handlebar; basically everything I can do to make it a more modern bike instead of having to spend a lot more to buy a decent bike from bikesdirect. My main concern is fitting a 700c rim on a 27 inch frame. According to sheldon brown, it should be fine for caliper brakes.

So I'm open to suggestions on the various parts that I'm planning to get. I'd like to get the best bang for the buck and try to keep expenses to the minimum. And I'm going to keep the friction shifting, so no need for those index shifters.

brake levers:
brakes (front and back):
rims:
tires:
handlebar:

please help with suggestions, thanks

Is there anything wrong with the current parts? For brake levers and brakes I think Tektros are of solid quality and functionality without a huge price tag. They also make some extra long reach that are helpful for converting from 27'' to 700c.

nothing wrong with current parts. I just want to upgrade the fuji so I can ride it for longer distances and use my panasonic as a beater commuter. I also want to try the 700c wheels, which are supposedly slightly sturdier and easier to pedal.

if there isn't anything wrong with the parts you have now, how will new components allow you to ride longer distances? for what it costs to get new parts you might be able to find a whole used bike that fits what you are looking for.

If your objective is to upgrade the bike, moving to 700c can make a big difference - lots of options for lightweight wheels, and lots of tire options. Upgrading components doesn't always equate to an "upgrade"... in fact, some more contemporary bits and pieces may wind up being heavier and in some ways less functional. If you go to 700c, you'll need longer reach brake calipers - Tektros worked fine for one of my conversions, and they look "right" with the 80's bike too. As has already been pointed out, none of this will make longer distances any easier. For distance, consider wider tires for comfort, bars and stem that dial in your fit, and a saddle that fits your sit bones. If you want miles, make sure your bike fits!

And post some photos when you get a chance. Folks here will come up with an unlimited number of suggestions for the build.

pictures? of me on the bike? I don't think comfort is an issue. my bike fits me pretty well.

So it sounds like tektro levers and brakes are good deals. so I guess the only thing left is deciding what rim and tire to use.

+1

What's wrong with the Panasonic?

The Del Rey is a nice vintage ride, but why put money into a bike with a bent frame? The Del Rey has good stock components, but the frame is Valite, meh..........

Great used Japanese bike deals are out there, for example a butted Tange cro-moly frame, 1988 Fuji Sagres SP, that I picked up yesterday for $40. Paint is 9+ condition. Add new tires, bar tape, brake pads, cables, and housing for about $50-$60, plus my labor to conduct a frame up rebuild.





And very Good deals on used Panasonics for well under $100, saddle included, that look brand new:

Yes the forks are supposed to be bent! That's why it rides like butter!