Stupid question, probably. Attached is a picture of my bike. Late 80's Rock Hopper. Its got PLENTY of clearance for bigger wheels. I'm thinking about getting a pair of 700C wheels/tires and try it out. I know that brakes will be the only problem. Is it possible to space the brakes upward, or do something else? I am willing to experiment a bit.

Has anyone ever done this? Would I need to go to a frame builder and have the frame modified for new brakes?

Thanks

EDIT: After look at the bike I realize that the front brake might be *really* easy to work with, but the rear will not be, for sure. Is it unreasonable to run only a front brake? I'd be willing to run a coaster brake geared hub in the back.

If it was a disc bike I'd say get a set of Mavic Speed City wheels, but since you don't have that option you're in for a load of fun. Best bet is to contact a frame builder and get his / her advice

Paul's Motolite brakes will allow you to run 700c's, but I dont know how well they will work on a chainstay application, if they will work at all. Not to mention they are a cantilever brake (albeit the best one probably) that costs as much as a disc brake system.

You may be able to use a long arm caliper brake if your bike has a brake bridge.

Thanks Raiyn, Seely, and DieselDan for the good suggestions.

Maybe I should make my next purchase I a bike MADE for fully rigid and 700C's, and all steel frame. Hmmm....

Don't give up mate. If you want to put 700C's on then I'm
sure that you can for less money than a new bike. I don't
hesitate to change a bike I really like and am familar with.
The wheels are mearly a component of the whole bike .......
not the whole bike. In other words....Don't buy the whole
elephant if all you want is elephant steaks.