Replacement axle (length & OLN)

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rockyraccoon

Veteran
Hi, I need to replace the axle on my vintage bike which has snapped recently... I'm looking for a straight and "ea$y" solution..

The horizontal dropouts have a space of 120mm and the alignment is correct (symmetry). No damage to the frame.

The current axle that has snapped has a length of 135mm. The cones were damaged so looking to get all replaced.. Hubs look fine also ball bearings.

The OLN is 126 mm.

The 6 speed freewheel is a
SunTour Pro Compe

The rear wheel is still in good condition and the bearings are OK.

So my question is if I was going to get a new axle with cones, spacers, etc and considering the dropouts spacing, should I get one with the same length 135mm? Would any other length be better? If yes, why?

The OLN is 126 mm. Keep it as it is or change it? Why?

Cheers
 

hurri

Regular
Location
Maidenhead
I'm confused as to what your real axle length is, the dropouts should be wider than the OLN I think at least?? ...but no matter! The point is that with vintage steel frames you can jam just about anything in there provided you don't mind the rear stays being bent in either direction.
Personally I don't think that its a good look to having a big kink in your stays even if it is functional , so I'd get the exact same axle as you have now. That way, you will preserve the alignment of the rest of your gear train and frame....
SJS probably have some spares for not much money. Good luck!
 
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