Sprite 27 - Upgrade Update!
 

Okay, So I've been busy with the bicycle over this "cold" winter we're having in KC>

Last time I left you I had the entire drivetrain ripped out and had questions about crank length/BB length etc. I also had questions about rims. Isn't that a wild world.

The Velo Orange threadless BB - 113mm- worked great. The extra 3mm clearance is good. When paired with the Velo 44t single crank, it is buttery smooth. New grease feels SO good.

At first it looked as if the Raleigh's BB shell was too lumpy and had a few rasps on the steel. I just filed those away, and wire brush cleaned the heck out of it.
The threadless BB fit great with little effort to install. Unlike removing those cottered cranks...

new rims, tyres, 5 speed freewheel, cables, and a thorough derailleur clean and maintenance. I also got really serious on mounting the rack and fenders. It's easy to half-ass it...

Thanks for the help :thumb:

http://imgur.com/a/ZTXhi

Nice work, looks great. I had a really nice all original sprite that actually fit me. I really wish I would've kept it.

Come on man, show us some drive side shots!

No pictures --> it does not exist. :)

That brake lever angle works for you?

Looking very nice! Well done.

--- Yeah I haven't really thought much about it. When I replaced the brake cables and levers I just dialed them in to where they felt natural. It rides very upright and its a short finger reach for me. I do put the front brake on the right side. I only signal with my left hand and would much rather have my dominate hand in control of the front brake.

More pictures, including drive side are in the works. I just had a chance to snap a few quickies with my cell phone. I was too excited -- I wanted to get out and ride but still post and give props to this awesome community.

stay tuned!

If you think about it it pretty much mimics the brake lever location on a modern hybrid- like my Sirrus.

Looking good. Nice to know the BB worked well. If I ever decide to change my crankset, I'll be sure to follow your lead. I was actually reading a Sheldon Brown article on Biopace today and I though it might be an interesting change but only if I commit to a BB upgrade. I need to ride it first I suppose!