Derailleur suggestions....

[SimpleMan]

I could use some input. I'm collecting parts to build my own version of a klunker. My starting point is a '56 Schwinn Phantom that is missing many of it's original parts. I will be spoking an Atom drum brake 5 speed hub into the original S2 rim. Thats where my question stems from....multi-geared bikes are not exactly familiar territory for me. I'm looking for suggestions on a derailleur and shifter.

I like the idea of using a factory cast aluminum Schwinn shifter handle with the S on it and making a strap type mount to mount it on the frame rail....like the vintage 2 speeds. The type of handle used on Schwinn 5 and 10 speeds of the 60's and 70's. I think these are friction type. What would be my options on derailleurs ? Is there a better way to go that will give me a 70's look with an indexing type set up.

I guess the point of this is to give me a little direction in my search for shifters and derailers so I can get started on the build.

Thanks

 

[SimpleMan]

This will be the starting point for my project....

 

[deorman]

If your talking stick shifter, you can pretty much just bolt in on there, but if your saddle is set for good leg extension, You're looking at a real jewel buster! Stem mount lever set-up is better, and pretty easy to find and mount. Those big "S"levers work best with the old heavy spring short Schwinn shifters, they tend to over power modern derailleurs, making gear selection a pain. Indexing thumb shifters are probably the best, you may or may not be able to get proper adjustment unless your shifter and derailleur are the same brand. Twist grip is popular as well. You can have inadvertent shifting trying to use them completely off trail, but you never have to release your grip, and they look cool. Down tube shift mounts are pretty unpleasant for anything other than a road-racing crouch. You could mount it on the top tube, but it's harder to reach, and IMO, doesn't look as clean.

 

[Rat Rod]

It's funny that you bring this up because I was at my LBS asking the guys about what they thought I needed to convert my 1980 Cruiser 5 from a Positron stem shifter to a friction thumb shifter. At first I asked about index shifting and he said that would be tough because it would require a different cassette out back....not sure I understand why or if he was even right on this.

I've been thinking about finding parts off of an early 80s MTB that used friction thumb shifters.

BTW...they have a 70s NOS in the box Suntour Cyclone GT derailleur just like the guys in Marin used for $100....man I'd like to have that thing.

 

[CCR]

At first I asked about index shifting and he said that would be tough because it would require a different cassette out back....not sure I understand why or if he was even right on this.

is the difference between the positron system and modern indexed shiters ... positron had an index in the derailer, and modern stuff has reversed where the shifter is indexed. i thought thats why positron used a thick solid cable .. a stranded wire would fold if it tried to push the shifter out of an index. anyway ... if the shifter is indexed its probably meant for a higher number of gears and the pull would probably be out of wack. 5 speed wheel, standard axle mounted derailer and a friction shifter is all you need.

 

[SimpleMan]

Of course I borrowed this image but I have a mid 70's era Suntour GT derailleur available exactly like the one pictured. I've road the bike it's on and it's very smooth. Seems to hang fairly low though.

 

[SimpleMan]

It's funny that you bring this up because I was at my LBS asking the guys about what they thought I needed to convert my 1980 Cruiser 5 from a Positron stem shifter to a friction thumb shifter. At first I asked about index shifting and he said that would be tough because it would require a different cassette out back....not sure I understand why or if he was even right on this.

When you posted your Cruiser 5 images is when I decided to find an Atom drum rear setup. I'd been looking at Schwinn Twinn's rear setup and thought how cool it was......never knew they actually put it on the Cruiser 5 till I saw yours. Thats when I decided the old Schwinn needed to be a loose interpretation of a klunker.......with drum brakes front and rear! I'm going to change the bars, but I believe the springer is going to stay. This thing should weigh a ton :mrgreen:

 

[Rat Rod]

I think Alan Bonds was a big fan of the Cyclones when he used a derailleur...

http://clunkers.net

 

[Rat Rod]

I need to figure out the difference between long and short cage derailleurs.

I'm sure the info is out there somewhere.

 

[deorman]

Long cage derailleurs can accommodate a wider range of gears because the end of the cage is able to travel further, and allows easier shifting on the same gears, because it doesn't have to travel as much. That's about it. :|