Originally Posted by
Brian44t
Thanks for the great input! Would be possible for a Moderator to move this thread to the C&V Forum to avoid duplication?
I am looking for a smaller frame bike, usually not the smallest but one step up. All bikes seem to vary in sizing but I am about 5'7".
Vintage MTB's I would consider looking at, for such a project, would include (among others):
- Bianchi Grizzly and Super Grizzly
- Miyata Terra Runner and Ridge Runner
- Peugeot Canyon Express and Cannon Ball Express
- Schwinn High Sierra and Cimarron
- Specialized RockHopper and StumpJumper
- Trek 930, 950, 970
- Univega Alpine series (ie, the Ultimo, the Uno)
As others have suggested, look for ones with fairly good-quality components. Such as the Shimano "Deer head" derailleurs of the mid-'80s, or the Shimano Deore (LX, DX) line of components.
I'd suggest looking for good-quality butted chromoly frames and forks, as it'll likely impact the overall weight and ride quality.
As for size of frame, it'll depend on your riding position and general flexibility/fitness.
Myself, I'm 5'9" or so, but with fairly shorter legs and a preferred upright riding position. Which makes even the smallest of typical '80s-'90s MTB frames far too long in the top tube to be comfortable. And so, I generally look for XS or even the 24"-wheeled (aka "kids' bike") variants in order to get the reach short enough for me.
At 5'7" and assuming a not hugely aggressive riding position, you'd be looking at the typical XS or S frame of the era, something with a top tube length somewhere around ~20-21" or so. With an appropriately-sized stem and bars, you ought to be able to get it configured the way you want it, size-wise. JMO.