Wheel size for small frames

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Kevin Mulcky on April 7, 2010 at 9:05am

Get a different frame. Or convert to 650-B.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Michael Perz on April 7, 2010 at 9:09am

On a frame originally designed for 27" wheels, 700c's will drop the top tube approximately half an inch. If you go smaller, like with 650c's, you will not be able to mount rim brakes and the bottom bracket will be perilously close to the ground. Save yourself the time, money and headache by finding a frame that actually fits instead of trying to rig up the one you have.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Chucko on April 7, 2010 at 1:28pm

If it's a small frame, it probably had 26" wheels to begin with. You can probably get 700c or 650b wheels to work. Your main issue would be lining the rim up with the brakes- changing wheel sizes means you might need a longer reach brake. I'd take it to a shop and have them help you figure that part out at least. They should have wheels in those sizes to try and see if they work. Guessing with a frame that small it wasn't meant for 27" wheels anyway.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by alex on April 7, 2010 at 1:53pm

I'm going to try that. I kind of like the headaches from building a franken bike but I did figure I would have problems with the brakes that's why I threw in the coaster brake option.Any suggestions on a friendly shop that will let me try out parts and help with ordering?

Chucko said:

If it's a small frame, it probably had 26" wheels to begin with. You can probably get 700c or 650b wheels to work. Your main issue would be lining the rim up with the brakes- changing wheel sizes means you might need a longer reach brake. I'd take it to a shop and have them help you figure that part out at least. They should have wheels in those sizes to try and see if they work. Guessing with a frame that small it wasn't meant for 27" wheels anyway.

• ▶ Reply