Muddyfox Courier 1987 compatability help

steviep26":2bdflq4t said:

I have recently inherited a 1987 Muddyfox courier and stumbled onto this forum while researching parts for it. I've been really impressed with the bikes on display.

This is my first project and although I don't want to do a complete restoration I'm keen to use some of the original parts.

It would be great if I could get some pointers with the following;

1. What size is the bottom bracket?

The shell will probably be 68mm (but measure it with calipers as it could be 73mm, the axle width you need will depend on the chainset but check sheldon browns site for the more common requirements

2. Could I rebuild the original wheels and replace the free wheel with a free hub?

Yes, you could but you will need to get a frame builder to coldset the frame (change the rear dropout width) if you wish to run more than 6 speed

3. Alternatively would the seat stays have enough room to fit news wheels with a 7 or 8 speed cassette?

Yes, you could but you will need to get a frame builder to coldset the frame (change the rear dropout width) if you wish to run more than 6 speed

Any help would be appreciated, I have a limited budget and don't want to blow it on incompatible parts. Thanks in advance.

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hamster":3sh5d6p7 said:

IIRC it is a 130mm rear spacing (correct me if I'm wrong). In that case you can run up to 10 speed on the back as it's exactly the same spacing as modern road bikes. Admittedly I would prefer more dish and a stronger wheel.

Respacing the frame to 135mm is definitely a good idea though, likewise fitting a freehub. Older 7 speed freehubs are around £10-15 and are a good start for a wheel rebuild.

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Chute55uk":61jeyrj1 said:

hamster":61jeyrj1 said:

IIRC it is a 130mm rear spacing (correct me if I'm wrong). In that case you can run up to 10 speed on the back as it's exactly the same spacing as modern road bikes. Admittedly I would prefer more dish and a stronger wheel.

Respacing the frame to 135mm is definitely a good idea though, likewise fitting a freehub. Older 7 speed freehubs are around £10-15 and are a good start for a wheel rebuild.

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this. the spacing for the rear wheels is pretty universal and hasn't changed much, i can comfortably fit a 9 speed back wheel in my 80's fisher as the dropout width is the same as all my other bikes.
just get one of the many 8 speed cassette rear wheels from the for sale section on here and put a 8 or 9 speed cassette on it. but dont forget you will have to change the shifters, chain and probably the rear mech.

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