ahilito

Hi,

I'm an occasional poster and wasn't sure if this belongs in the mechanics section or here.

I've got an old Triumph Bermuda which I want to work on a bit. But my first problem is I have no idea what size wheels should actually be on this thing, I found it dumped a few years back and managed to fit some random wheels onto it, which have served me til now (they were 26x1 1/4 [back] and 26 x 1 3/8 [front]).

Does anyone know what ideal size wheel I should be looking for for this bike? I was hoping to build it up as a single speed, possibly with a tensioner for the chain. But I'm not sure if the modern tensioners will even attach to this frame??

thanks for any help

dweenk

No photos to help me, but I recall that the Bermuda was a three speed that perhaps was offered in a single speed version. The proper wheel/tire size would be 26 x 1 3/8 (590 B.S.D.). That designation may be molded onto the tire.

I don't understand the need for a chain tensioner. Could you post photos?

nlerner

You could probably fit a wide variety of wheels (or you can with a Raleigh Sports). The main consideration will be what reach brakes you need (unless you're running it brakeless, of course).

ahilito

Sorry this photo isn't the best, but that's the bike.

I wanted to put a tensioner on because I thought it would alleviate any problems with a loose chain slipping off etc, but of course this isn't a big deal to me. You think it's not worth it?

Thanks

dweenk

It looks to be a 3 speed, and I would keep it that way - but I am a sucker for English 3 speeds. The rear rim looks to be salvageable with an oxalic acid (wood bleach) bath. You should have no chain drop problems as long as the chain is tensioned properly. I would try to find a bike shop or coop that carries cable housing clips/clamps and get rid of the tape. My two cents.

ahilito

Thanks for the tips. I'll definitely be getting rid of the tape, don't worry!