should I modify these dropouts?
 

I was recently given an old Specialized Hard Rock frame with these weird dropouts-- they're semi-horizontal, but have metal connecting the upper and lower sides, stopping the axle from going all the way back.

Should I do as this guy suggests-- and file / dremel the metal "stoppers" out?

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jimg/25...7594298401528/

Seems like then I'd have some pretty useful dropouts for running the bike ss / fixed...

yes.

chop chop

Then It Shall Be

I have a Full Force MTB (No, I have never heard of that brand either.) That has a decal on it saying it was "designed by Specialized". It has those same funny dropouts.

I chopped mine out with a hacksaw and then filed them smooth.

I have not actually built up the frame beyond that initial step, so I can't vouch for the operation just yet. But I saw no reason not to. The remaining part of the dropout had as much metal as any normal dropout though.

Let me know if you try it and it fails and you die in a ball of fire.

will keep you posted re: dropout fireball deathfailure

I've done the same thing to an old hardrock. If you have the dremel that is the way to go, cutting with a hacksaw and then filing the dropouts even was not as easy as it might sound. It was a trick to get the blade flush with the dropout, and then file off enough to even things up.

On behalf of the internet I command you not to do this! Bicycles are sacred and should never be modified in the name of crass practicality. Just kidding go for it.

Dear magic forum 8 ball. Should I go to work tomorrow? Will I be happier if i stay home on the internet and masturbate?

I'm just trying to think of what practical purpose those could've served, you know. I mean, it seems like you lose adjustability in terms of axle position while gaining **** all.

Maybe I've just ridden fixed gear too much and can't break outside that mindset or something.

My friend has a Raleigh that I've been bugging him to dremel out the blockage in the dropouts. Similar to yours, except no hole and only on the drive side.

magic forum 8 ball says yes

i hate my job so, so much.