Another question for the cycling enthusiasts.

[Sheets of Easter]

I recently bought a 1980's model Univega 10-speed off of craigslist. It needs a lot of work, but the frame is in excellent condition. It's a 62 cm frame (I'm 6'2", so that's why I got it) and has 27" wheels- make that ONE 27" wheel. It needs new brakes and new handlebars (I would like the kind of handlebars that come on a hybrid bike). I'd be using it mainly for leisurely rides and running the occasional errand. The trick is to convert it from a road bike to a comfort bike. High performance is not a priority.

Anyway, here comes the stupid question part of the post. I'm not keen on the skinny 27" wheels that come with road bikes, and would like to swap them out with wider 26" wheels (ones where the rims are at least 1.5"). Is this possible?

anyway, if you need more info, let me know and I will supply it. Thanks

[joneschick]

1. the really smart cycling folks

are in the cycling forum http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topics&forum=324

:hi:

[Sheets of Easter]

2. I'll cross-post, but the Lounge gets more traffic.

Thanks!

[jmowreader]

3. The brakes are going to screw you p, for one thing...

You'd need a lot of adjustability in the brake shoe mounts on the calipers, and the wheel would have to be able to fit in the frame.

[bikebloke]

4. An easy change to try.

Rather than buy new wheels, you could install thicker tires. When I rolled on 27" wheels, I trekked on 27 x 1 1/4" tires. Then I experimented with slimmer tires on the same rim - I forget the size now. See what's available from your local supplier.

[SacredCow]

5. My $0.02...

Brakes are one issue (though there may be some out there that have enough reach), but depending on the height of the bottom bracket (crank spindle) you might end up banging your cranks against the ground when you make a corner. And the clearances are also iffy- My best advice would be to find some wheels to borrow and see how it works out.

Or, look into getting hybrid or cyclocross wheels/tires. They're commonly 27" (700c) and should be plenty wide to make for a comfortable ride.

[Sheets of Easter]

6. Thanks!

And thank you all. Good advice. :hi: