Tom
> Finally, does anyone have info about the Weinmann rims Schwinn used back in
> "74? How much did they weigh, and are they durable enough for a big
> (235lb) guy like me? Converting to 700c wheels would be dodgy because of
> the cavernous brake reach in the rear.
I have a funny attitude about bikes I plan to ride -- namely, they should be rideable, and authenticity be darned. Bikes are art too, but art is hung on walls. Even if you believe that classic *frames* are functionally superior to their modern counterparts, I doubt if many believe that classic components were better. The newest may not always be the greatest (I'm partial to 8-speed down-tube indexed Dura Ace) but in general newer is better.
And my guess is that applies to wheels too. I'm also a big guy (heavier than you) and I found that the Weinmann rims Viscount used in 1976 did not suit me. Possibly the rims would have been okay if properly built up (new spokes, stress relieved, and all that) but I opted to switch to 700c (reusing the Viscount hub in the rear, which is sealed and will runs fine) and I'm glad I did -- lighter & stronger and maybe even stop better.
as to the reach of the rear brakes, yes, the drop required me to get new ones, but you may be luckier, because even on my bike the old ones ALMOST worked. But new long-reach brakes are easy to get (I forget what model I got, but Harris Cyclery / Sheldon Brown carries 'em -- I think Peter White does too -- Shimano R600's, maybe).
- Charles
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Charles Kramer
New York, NY 10003
Masi Prestige, Litespeed... and Viscount