I’d like to convert a 2007 bianchi volpe into a gravel bike but I’m having trouble finding out what wheel type is compatible, from my research 700×35 will fit with plenty of clearance but as far as wheel type and compatibility I am completely lost
by Successful-Crab-4415
3 Comments
700C wheels. 100 mm quick release in front. 130 mm quick release in back. Brake tracks. I’m not sure about the freehub – what components are on there?
Rim width is harder. If you’re running a 35 mm tire, you probably want about a 19 mm wide rim, maybe more if you can get it.
https://www.electricbikejournal.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-bike-tire-sizes/
You might be able to go even bigger with the tire. Cyclocross per se was limited to 35 mm when that bike came out but a lot of cyclocross frames and forks will clear fatter. Do keep about 6 mm of clearance all around.
You also need tire clearance within your brakes. I could never get cantilevers to work well but mini-V’s are great.
It looks like it already has wheels….
The wheels are standard 28″ rims (700) and what looks like standard 9mm quick release. You measure the rim width in milimeters. There must be billions of these wheels around in the world. Go to your lokal bikeshop for best help. I presume you are figuring on a wider rim to hold wider tires? I am not sure it is possible because of the brake system, risk for rubbing.
my old cx bike with cantis clears 38s by a few millimeters so i’d advise against going over that. If you’re willing to risk it or got bigger tires laying around you can try them but probably they won’t fit