I have an old Raleigh Capri that I would like to convert to a Fixed Gear. What are your suggestions as to Wheels. The 27 inch are OK. Would it save a lot of weight if I went to new wheels and what do you recommend. The bike currently weighs 32.5 lbs. How about the crank? Can it be used and if so, would you use it. Any other info would be appreciated. I would like to lighten it up if possible. Thanks for your help everyone.
Bill F.

is your last name Fitzgerald?

Harris Cyclery sells 27" wheels, weinmann rims with formula hubs, the rear being a flip flop hub. Depending on the dropout width, these might be an option.

32.5 pounds is pretty heavy, isn't it? Is this a road bike? Pics?

I converted my Raleigh Record, and I think it was a mistakkkeeee

No, my name isn,t Fitzgerald, it's Fromm.

The bike is a road bike with drop handlebars. I question if it's worth converting, since others are available quite cheaply and very light. I can't show pictures since I'm on vacation 1600 miles from home for another week or so. Thanks guys for the responses

My 1976 Raleigh Record weighed 30 pounds prior to SS conversion, and now it weighs 24ish. I did go down to 700c wheels from 27 inch, with long-reach brakes.

I also have a record I am thinking about converting. ZiP0082, what BB and crank set did you pick to replace the cotter set?

taking the unnecessary parts will drop a good deal of weight. For wheels, if you are going to get a new set i would go with 700c. If you like riding fixed you can transfer a 700c wheel set to a new frame if / when you decide you want something better.

700C are 28" wheels, while 27" are well, 27". 650C are 26" and 600A are 24".

The reason why 700C typically work with 27" frames is because while the rim actually goes up to 28", the height of the tire comes down.

Also, I would not convert this bike, IMO. You can find a good deal on CL of a lighter, newer bike. However, you could probably turn it into a single speed using the current cranks / freewheel, but you'll likely have a silly gear ratio. That would only entail cutting your chain.

https://velospace.org/files/zip_bike.jpg

I actually just converted it to SS by modifying the chainrings (removing the 52t, and leaving the 40t) to keep the chainline straight. I wanted to put the 52t larger ring on the inside, but it was practically touching the chainstay. I didn't convert to fixed due to having the cotterpins still in the cranks. In short, I'm waiting on the latest shipment from BikesDirect to score a Kilo TT. I don't feel like the Record makes the best conversion. I think at the time it was one of Raleigh's most low-end road bikes with slack, touring geometry.

This is incorrect.

700c has an diameter of 622mm not 700mm
27 in is 630mm.

This is why 700c wheels fit into frames built for 27in wheels. This is also why you need long reach brakes for 700c wheels when converting from a frame designed for 27 in wheels.

https://sheldonbrown.com/rim-sizing.html

If you have the know how and want to convert try it, ride it, and then upgrade.

Are you ******** with this guy, or do you really think this is true?

Why not convert though? I hear a lot of comments hear about a frame not being worth it but from my perspective if you get a free/cheap frame then why not. For me the project is a way to learn a little more about working on bikes all while trying a new riding style.

Sure, convert it. 700c wheels with alloy rims will be lighter than your 27" wheels (probably steel rims). New cranks will most likely be lighter also.
"New" 700c wheelset (you can pick up a used set on craigslist for pretty cheap, and then you can swap these to another frame later if you like) + new cranks (go to your bike shop and get some used road doubles and a bottom bracket if you need one) = finished conversion.

yeah, if you ask me this is a perfect candidate for conversion. Not too nice but not a total pos. most parts should be standard size so if you decide to upgrade most of the parts you had to purchase will be reusable.

Thats what I was thinking. Not nice enough you worry about it getting beaten up or stolen but nice enough to ride around on....

lol i have a raleigh record that i want to convert... Low on funds broke college student.