Hi Don, I think it is more typical to determine correct spindle length based on clearance between the right chainstay and the chainrings and/or correct chainline. The front derailleur is not a fixed part of the system as it is adjustable. If it is adjusted properly the bike will shift correctly and not rub the crankarm. I do recall some combinations that were pretty hard to achieve this. T.A. cranks and newer Campy NR derailleurs with the lip on the cage were difficult. They usually liked to rub the crankarm. Regards, Troy Warnick, Olympia WA
>From: donrazr@juno.com
>To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
>Subject: [CR]Clearance
>Date: Fri, 26 Jan 2001 20:13:54 -0700
>
>Though not really on topic, this comes up when putting together a vintage
>bike. When you have the correct spindle length, how much clearance is
>"normal" between the front derailleur cage and the inside of the right
>crankarm when the front derailleur is all the way out (chain on big ring,
>smallest cog)? This would be for a double chainring. I'm sure there is
>some variance, but what is a good average?
>
>Don W.
>Tucson, AZ