Bother
I hadn’t considered the dropouts. I’ll look into that before I do much then. I don’t want to start a project I can’t finish.
Is is even possible to buy halfway decent components built around a 6 speed block these days? (In the event that I decide not to proceed with the dropout change). Additionally, how far could I go? 7/8sp?
Regarding the shifters, I was actually thinking of going on ebay if possible for some SIS downtube levers. You’re right that mine are braze on at the moment, they’re friction too. I have seen that Wiggle and CRC are still selling Dura-Ace downtube shifters that I think would work with my planned drive-train. But Dura-Ace is probably a bit excessive.
Then some basic shimano road levers to replace the ones I have (but that’s down the line).
It would be really good to resurrect my first road bike that I did evening 10s in the 80’s on.