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Is it a sensible idea to replace these wheels with modern 26” size?
Probably not. 26×1⅜ is 590, so the best way to modernise would probably be 650B, i.e. 584. Common 26" (i.e. MTB) rims are 559, which is a much bigger change and will probably make it almost impossible to find brakes given that you already have a pretty long drop with the 590 rims.
gbj_tester
Fixing up a tandem I bought during summer (for cheapz, £20 and went halfs with someone)
It rides as it is but I want to make it solid more comfortable and safer!
Has 26 x 1 3/8 wheels, caliper rim brakes and rear drum brake operated by stoker. The drum brake looks like it’s beyond saving. Is it a sensible idea to replace these wheels with modern 26” size? What issues could crop up? I’d lose the drum brake of course.
Also has an old clip type headset, the quill stem that is currently installed seems a lot more modern and is very hard / impossible to do up tightly, as in you can force it to shift out of place if you hold the wheel still. Are there different internal steerer diameters but still ‘1inch’ (particularly for old bikes)?
The bikes at a friends house but will post some more pictures soon