New member Kurt Henry (welcome aboard!) asks:
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My first question for the list is around using vintage flip flop hubs for regular use. I'm currently riding the Londoner above as a fixed gear. I converted the freewheel wheelset (NR hubs laced to GL330 tubular rims) to fixed by using a bottom bracket lockring and re-dishing to just try it out. <snip>
I could easily replace the current wheelset with a newer kinda generic hubset using sealed bearings and such, but that seems a waste for such a cool frame. Instead, I'm considering building up a set of vintage high flange hubs, like maybe some Bramptons or Airlites. I already have the Brooks B-17 in place along with a Carradice, so it only seems appropriate to go the whole-hog path racer route.
From the experience of list members, are there vintage flip-flop hubs that are not well sealed and that I should stay away from on a bike that may get caught in a shower now and then while out riding? Or maybe some that have really nice seals and good bearings that make good riders? I'm hoping to avoid any "all show, no go" hubs, so any input on things to avoid or grab would be greatly appreciated.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Hardin were famed for great seals, and for their central grease fitting. A shot or two of grease in the center fitting would displace the contaminated grease. For conventional designs, the AirLite Continental doesn't look bad. I believe that the MaxiCar (French) had great seals. The British ones were invariably 40 hole.
I have one reservation about most of the British hubs of the era: Most are "flatted" with top and bottom of the spindle milled away to clear the narrow dropouts on contemporary British frames (which were so often set up for Sturmey hubs, which needed anti-twist). This makes them somewhat weaker in the key vertical direction. Most British riders of the era were probably somewhat lighter than some of us older fellows, and I worry a bit about bending axles. Should I?
harvey sachs
mcLean va