WTB: 650b wheelset
06-27-23, 02:17 PM
#1
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WTB: 650b wheelset
I'm looking for a 650b wheelset where the rear hub will accept a freewheel. I'm trying to add a little more clearance to my Miyata Triple Cross. I'll include a pic of it below. Right now it's sort of a frankenstein but I'm starting a project to spruce it up. Assuming there's enough clearance, I'll be trying to put size 42 tires on it.
I've also only ever built frames with 26 inch or 700c wheels so if you have any suggestions on this project then let me know
I've also only ever built frames with 26 inch or 700c wheels so if you have any suggestions on this project then let me know
06-27-23, 04:10 PM
#2
Senior Member
The 650b is 38mm smaller in diameter than a 700c. The brakes will need 19mm more reach. I think that might be an issue.
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06-27-23, 04:23 PM
#3
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Doesn't this bike take 700 x 38c tires? If so, there is not much of a pay off to running 650b x 42c tires. Plus there is the problem of the canti post placement.
Neat bike but not a good candidate for a 650b conversion.
Neat bike but not a good candidate for a 650b conversion.
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06-27-23, 05:23 PM
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When I was considering a conversion to 650B, I created a 'story stick'. The term is used by woodworkers and means a stick with marks at the critical measurement points. My stick had a hole drilled in one end for a rod (same diameter as the axle) that served as the axle reference. From the center line of that rod I measured out and marked the location of the rim specs, the wide point of the tire, and the outside surface of the tire. Mounting the rod in the dropout allowed me to swing this story stick to see where the critical rim and tire points would fall on the chain and seat stays, as well as judge clearance for any bridges. I would then measure clearance widths at those points to see if my particular tire and rim choices would work out. Knowing where the rim would end up will also tell you if your brakes would work.
This method allowed me to proceed with one conversion, a Bianchi road bike, which only worked out because of long reach caliper brakes. The other bike I really wanted to convert never made it specifically because of the brake bosses.
This method allowed me to proceed with one conversion, a Bianchi road bike, which only worked out because of long reach caliper brakes. The other bike I really wanted to convert never made it specifically because of the brake bosses.
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06-27-23, 05:49 PM
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Moe Zhoost , the story stick is a great idea!
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06-27-23, 08:18 PM
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As others posted above, with cantis this isn't an ideal conversion candidate- but if it'll fit 38s as-is, try some Rene Herse 700x38c Barlow Pass tires on it. Yeah, they're $$$, but TBH, they feel almost as nice as the 650bx42c wheels/tires I'm running on a couple of my conversions.
06-27-23, 09:35 PM
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Just get yourself the biggest, nicest 700C tires you can fit, and call it a day. Your metric allen keys are a convenient way to measure clearance to the brakes and frame.
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06-28-23, 01:03 PM
#10
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Amazing feedback everyone, thank you. I was concerned about the canti post position. That's a great tip Moe Zhoost I'll keep that in mind.
I'll just buy the Soma's and call it a day. Sadly they're out of stock on the 38 skinwall - if anyone has some let me know!
I'll just buy the Soma's and call it a day. Sadly they're out of stock on the 38 skinwall - if anyone has some let me know!
06-29-23, 02:47 PM
#11
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Amazing feedback everyone, thank you. I was concerned about the canti post position. That's a great tip Moe Zhoost I'll keep that in mind.
I'll just buy the Soma's and call it a day. Sadly they're out of stock on the 38 skinwall - if anyone has some let me know!
I'll just buy the Soma's and call it a day. Sadly they're out of stock on the 38 skinwall - if anyone has some let me know!
Keep checking Soma; they put them on sale from time to time. 37 is a great price - anything below 50 would be a buy for me to get a backup pair.
