My first post outlines it. Drum and 8 speed.
Thinking about the rest of the frame now. I want to get the frame together, and maybe the seat, then start ironing out any issues I find. At least then I'll have a rolling bike.
I think I will have the head tube welded in line with the frame tube, as below. This would allow me to use a conventional threaded stem to attach the handlebars, and the maintenance would be with normal bike parts.
Planning on using this 1.25" OD, 0.049" thick 4130 chromoly steel tubing.
http://aircraftproducts.wicksaircraf...-1-4x049-41ag?
This would mean, however, that the headset for the handlebar mount may be wider than the frame tube, and I may need some sort of strengthening gusset or frame modification. Suggestions welcome. I am wondering if I could have the frame tubes bent into the shape of lips, with the headset being a 'cigar' sticking out of them.
I have yet to source a parts bike for the steering headset, so perhaps I can find something that's not too wide. I'll rummage through the parts bins at the bike shop when I go for Schwinn parts. Maybe they'll have a wrecked frame with a good headset.