700c rims are 4mm smaller in radius than 27" rims. So, if the studs are properly located for 27" rims, they will be 4mm too high for 700c rims. This will make the pivot point too close to the rim, making the brakes difficult if not impossible to setup correctly. And it will significantly reduce the pad travel for a given cable travel.
I'd stay with 27" rims. Sun still makes the CR-18 in 27", which will look fine on a period bike.
Peter Jon White
Peter White Cycles
24 Hall Rd.
Hillsborough, NH 03244
603 478 0900 Phone
603 478 0902 Phax
http://www.PeterWhiteCycles.com
> Hi all,
> I need some new cantilever brakes for an early 80's Trek 720 touring
> frame I'm building up. I want to run 700c rims in lieu of the stock 27"
> ones.
>
> Has anyone tried this and do you recommend any specific brake such as
> Mafac's, Paul's, Ritchey's, etc. I'm totally open as to the brand.
>
> Thanks,
> Rod Kronenberg
> Fort Collins, CO