I read a comment on a different thread that said “marry the frame, date the components, and got me thinking…. Before I get too deep in this rabbit hole of building a touring bike, I should ask some opinions. (If this isn’t going to be a good touring bike I’ll change my plans for this frame)
This is actually a 1991 Schwinn Crosscut frame that’s been powder coated… my thinking behind using this is because of the multiple braze ons to attach racks, it’s a nice lugged steel frame, can fit a wide 700c tire on there, it just “feels right” where I can have an upright and comfortable ride when built out correctly.
Figure I use a 3×9 drivetrain, a riser stem with shallow drip bars. And load it up with plenty of racks.
If you have any suggestions on how to build this out good for touring would love to hear it!
by bruski
3 Comments
Nice frame. I’d build it as a 2×9 with a compact crankset but I don’t carry the kitchen sink with me like a lot of tourers on here.
Velo orange makes a lot of parts that could be a good fit if you can’t find vintage stuff. Id just use stuff from my parts bin and upgrade as desired. I guess the type of bars you intend to use will have the biggest impact on where you go lever/shifter wise.
The bike looks good. For touring it’s nice to have a front rack. Is your brake bridge drilled? If not you may be able to rig something. This is an OMM elkhorn:
https://oldmanmountain.com/product/elkhorn-bike-rack/
You will also need a fit kit for QR axles:
https://oldmanmountain.com/product/bike-rack-fit-kit-setqrf/
For the rear a Tubus low rider would work. These are getting a bit pricey but they will work.
For me I am married to ultegra but I will date different frames. I’m not sure if you would need an adapter for the brakes. They used to make something called a “[travel agent](https://www.sheldonbrown.com/cribsheet-adapters.shtml)” I don’t know if they still make them.
Do you plan to use a generator?
Sweet frame! Be careful clamping the top tube in that stand; it looks like you’re squeezing right on top of a cable stop and that could damage the frame.
Looks like it’s got a pretty long reach, maybe take some measurements. I’d consider an alt bar/something other than a drop bar.
Share progress pics with us! I’m sure r/xbiking would love to see what you do with it, too.