ModelTFan01

I have a 1981 Free Spirit "Pinnacle" Road Bike that I'd like to convert to 700c due to the wider selection of tires and tubes. It will replace an old steel rim that can't hold pressures higher than 75 PSI and since I'm heavy, I keep having snake-bit tubes.

Is it possible with that bike? And if so, what modifications will I need to make?

Also, is it worth to convert or just put new tires and tubes on the bike and sell it?

Here's some information on the bike:
It's a 12 speed.

On the thing near the pedals it had these numbers stamped in to it. (10 digits on top then 8 digits on bottom)

718-472930
70402160

Any help is appreciated. Thanks in advance.

gerv 

If you are thinking of replacing the 27 inch wheel with 700c's, check:

1. Can the brake pads currently set up drop down a little. Not much. Maybe 1/2 inch?
2. What is the width of the read dropouts. If 126mm, as is likely the case with a 12 speed, you should be able to spread the read triangles enough to take a 130mm hub . But you need to check first. ' cause if it's 120mm, that may require some frame widening.

If both of these work out, you are probably golden.

Bill Kapaun

A 27" wheel has a 630MM Bead Seat Diameter, while a 700c has a 622MM BSD.

Therefore, your brake pads have to be able to move 4MM (5/32") closer to the axle. (better to round that up to 3/16")

In my limited experience of 2, it seems that on 1 brake it's no problem, while the other is "marginal".

You can easily measure dropout spacing, with a ruler/tape measure. Remove wheel and measure inside to inside. 126MM is about 4-15/16".

Also, verify the front is 100MM (3-15/16"). Some old bikes had a 94?MM front spacing.

The Free Spirits I've seen have pretty bottom end components.
You may be better off to put on the cheapest tires you can find and sell to finance a better bike.

ModelTFan01

Thanks. I was thinking about putting some Michelin "World Tour" tires on it and Kenda Tubes [in both front and back] and put air in them and take photos. Then I'll sell it. Because I'll be able to get a good $50-$100 (perhaps more) out of it since it's Vintage (1981 Vintage), it's a Road Bike, it's in near-mint condition, and I've put some new tires and tubes on it.

I was thinking about getting this bike.

Bianchigirll 

For what a set of wheels tires tubes, possibly brake calipers (and you need to find 'nutted' ones no doubt) and then labor if you can't do the work yourself you may want to look around for a nicer bike for a few more dollars.

IIRC the Free Spirit was Sears brand and roughly just a bit nicer than a Huffy or roadmaster. a basic Hitensil steel frame and all steel components.

even off the shelf 700c wheels will run $100 or so then $45+ for tires and another $20 for rimstrips and tubes. Brake $30ish plus for a pair of decent longreach Tektros. Labor with a tuneup included may be $50ish.

Velognome 

"just put new tires and tubes on the bike and sell it" You said it brother...time to move on