Originally Posted by
silferion
My road bike steel frame has 130mm clearance for the rear wheel. It was originally 5 speed freewheel and I want to increase the gears to 7, 8, or 9 speed cassette. Is it possible? If yes, any tips for me?
How old is the bike?
If it is 80s or 90s generally it can be made work.
If its older than that it can be more trouble.
Simplest is get a seven speed wheel and a new chain.
Or buy a groupset and wheels that all match.
Or buy a bike and swap parts.
There are caveats.