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Filing drop outs

Old 04-19-08 | 03:26 PM
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Filing drop outs

So I picked up this old 60s Raleigh frame and built it up a few months ago. I had to file the front drop outs for the wheel to fit up front. No problem. From day one of riding though the bicycle has been veering slightly to the left when uncontrolled. Is this common for conversions? Is this an issue of any importance? It's only significant when I have to do something briefly that requires no hands. I have to lean awkwardly to counterbalance. So, if I were to file down one of the drop outs a little more would that be a good solution?
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Old 04-19-08 | 07:11 PM
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That happens to me sometimes. Just make sure your wheel is on straight. If you can't, then yeah, finish filing the dropouts.
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Old 04-19-08 | 08:14 PM
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i say true ur wheel just in case
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Old 04-19-08 | 11:55 PM
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From: boston

Bikes: iro markV, 85ish fuji del ray 12 speed, 2000 specialized allez, 2007 specialized allez expert

is the rear wheel centered? if it is off to the side it will drift because of that too.
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Old 04-20-08 | 03:39 AM
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Originally Posted by Withnil
So I picked up this old 60s Raleigh frame and built it up a few months ago. I had to file the front drop outs for the wheel to fit up front. No problem. From day one of riding though the bicycle has been veering slightly to the left when uncontrolled. Is this common for conversions? Is this an issue of any importance? It's only significant when I have to do something briefly that requires no hands. I have to lean awkwardly to counterbalance. So, if I were to file down one of the drop outs a little more would that be a good solution?
no, it's not common for conversions (or any bicycle)
and yes, it's significant, because every time you look behind to check your six, or traffic, your going to drift to your left. (not good)

I can ride my conversion no hands for miles, and even while looking behind me and it goes straight as a pool cue.

something obviously isn't lined up right, or your headset has a "set" in it.

check the alignment (measure), check the headset, check the axles, check the wheel true (or dish).
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