I am in the process of trying to bring a 1953 Jack Taylor Tourist back to it's original glory. The bike as I received it can be seen on Joel Metz wonderful web page at
http://www.blackbirdsf.org/
serial # 2828 The paint and decals are great and I have decided to wax and wax and wax. Yes, Joel I will get you pics of the finial product. It was discussed here while it was on ebay. I bought it off the buyer who had ebay remorse and was happy to get his money back out of it. As you can see, some time in the 70;'s all it's original equipment was replaced.
My questions to the list are:
Given it's, I think, unusual sizing 21.5" cTc seat tube and 23" cTc top tube I'm planning on a flat handle bar. What would be appropriate?
What wheel set would be appropriate on such a ride. As it has Mafac canti's I think I can make either 27" or 700cc work.
I have a Simplex JUY 56 door spring rear derailleur on it (anyway I think that is what it is). Any help locating a front derailleur for the 2-hole braze on will be greatly appreciated. Down pull cable operated.
I have a 120mm Phil hub (something like 14-21 freewheel) on it now and can only get it to shift 4 gears. Can this thing really shift 5 gears?
Help with answers appreciated and help locating parts even more appreciated. How about a pair of hammered fenders, or a rack or two, or the wheel set and especially the front der.
Dan (mostly a lurker but definitely a weenie) Shindelar Balmy Minnesota
ps - Thanks for the great work Joel