Hello guys!

Before you read on I just want to say this is going to be very long winded and the questions I am about to ask have probably already been covered a hundred times already. It also probably not worth your time. However if you are in the mood to help a dummy out then you are my hero!

I know by the time I finish this project I will have spent enough time and money to buy a decent second hand bike but I want a project!

So here we go..

What I know is that I have a vintage puch road bike, it's 10 speed and has downtube shifters. Unfortunately I cannot age the bike or find out the model becsuse the hooligan who owned it before me sprayed the poor thing and ruined it, they didn't even do a good job of it which rubs salt in the cut.

What I want to do is upgrade the bikes gear system. I love the look of vintage frames but I cannot get on with downtube shifters atall, I've tried to get used to them but I cant. My friend very kindly gave me some dropbar shifters but they are shimano 3 x 8s (I'm planning to stick with shimano for all new parts) and not for 10s but I fancy a challenge making them work on my bike. I have the time and money to do so and I already have a decent road bike so I'm in no hurry for this one to be on the road.

What I'm wondering are which other parts will I need for the bike?

I'm thinking I will need a rear freehub which is obviously 8 speed, does anybody know what width these come in and how wide I will need the frame for this? I think my bike is currently 130mm wide and I'm wondering if I will need to cold set the frame?

Next part is the rear Derailleur, the one on the bike currently is a rather old looking shimano. What type will it need replacing with?

Next thing I need to know is if I get a triple crankset will any type of shimano crankset made for roadbike fit or do I have to get specific one for a vintage frame? And along with triple crankset what front Derailleur and chain would I need?

Also if you can think of any other problems I may encounter along the way I would be greatful advice.

I understand that was alot of reading and if you do choose to reply I would be ever so greatful!

Thanks for your time!

Chris

Do the shifters you got from your friend fit in the ends of the drop bars?
When you replace the tires and tubes you've already spent $50.
I've been finding great wheel deals on Craigslist such as,
New Reynolds Alta Comp wheels with new Michelin Dynamic Sport tires and 9 speed cassette $100
Like new Bontrager SSR wheels with like new R7 plus tires and 9 speed cassete $125

Here's a very lengthy thread (3,976 posts) on the subject that may help.

Retro Roadies - Old Frames with STIs or Ergos