700c wheels in a 27 inch wheel frame

[Landsurfer]

Sorry if this is the 1000th time this has been asked but …
I have 2 lovely Raleigh Clubman bikes from the 80’s .. I also have a number of top quality 700c wheel sets … the brakes will reach ..
Am I going to damage the frames pulling them apart to allow the 700c wheels to fit ??
or is there a cunning fix I haven’t thought of ?
👍🇬🇧

 

[biggs682]

Just remember that if you are out on a ride you might need to get the wheel in and out so I wouldn't try running 130 oln wheels, but you should get away with 128mm oln wheels.

Why swap?

 

[Ian H]

A 700C rim will fit any width hub.

 

[Chris S]

Just remember that if you are out on a ride you might need to get the wheel in and out so I wouldn't try running 130 oln wheels, but you should get away with 128mm oln wheels.

Why swap?

You get a better range of tyres. Also, most 27 inch wheels were chrome plated and won't stop in the rain.

 

[biggs682]

You get a better range of tyres. Also, most 27 inch wheels were chrome plated and won't stop in the rain.

Agreed re tyres but there's enough 27" alloy wheel and rims around

 

[Punkawallah]

You should have no issue with ‘springing’ a frame to slide a slightly too-wide hub between the drop outs. ‘Cold setting’ a frame to fit a hub can be an issue if done wrong, or if you over extend it. Remember the Clubman frame was not designed for seven speed+ blocks, and the chain might foul the frame.
Good luck!