Taz Taylor asked <snip>:
And will I have any issues using modern deraileurs with Simplex downtube shifters (ie enough cable pull, etc)? ++++++++ Of course, we assume by modern you mean pre-indexing, on-topic.
The plastic Simplex down-tube shifters, and the cast aluminum ones of the same form, had a rather small equivalent wrap diameter - didn't take up much chain.
This is likely to mean rather large amount of lever movement. If your girlfriend is not very experienced, this may make learning easier. But, personally I like the old Suntour ratchet shifters far better, and they are still cheap. You will have to use your Simplex attachment screws if they mount on braze-ons, as the French threads are coarser.
Good luck! harvey "will be in Atlanta the third week of September" sachs mcLean va