1970 Raleigh frame

[snickerman]

Hi
I want to get back into cycling. I am a big guy - 380 lbs. I have a Del Sol hybrid I bought a couple of years ago, with probably 10 miles on it. Has 6061 frame - welded ends. I also have my bike from my youth - a 1970 Raleigh 10 speed with a lugged frame (most likely a steel frame). Questions: which frame is better from a safety standpoint given my weight? Can I use the Del Sol hybrid and put on velocity deep v (700c) rims, 40/14 ga. spokes and white industry hubs to make it more safe for me to ride? If I do the upgrade, will the Del Sol frame still be safe for me?

Lastly, if the above Del Sol frame is not safe, would it be more safe for me to do the same thing (frame/spokes/hub) with the 1970 Raleigh frame? I appreciate any feedback on this issue as I need to lose weight and I really enjoy cycling (and must lay off the Snickers).

[1FJEF]

You should call Peter White. I think he is going to recommend velocity Psychos, that's the only wheel he would make for me at over 265lbs.