Thanks trumpton,
I’m gonna hang on till I get the frame, from what I’ve found out online the chainline for a standard MTB frame is 47.5mm, assuming a run of the mill 3 ring crank was installed the most popular spindle length points to 113mm – but still cant be 100%
I’ve done a similar setup to you, V brakes bolt straight on, plenty of cheap 26″ tires availble on 7/8 speed gear is dirt cheap.
I was riding cycle cross and touring on a Jamis carbon renegade, but I wanted to fit heavy duty panniers for touring and I couldnt leave the Jamis out of site (while in the pub, etc)
I figured that a 1990s steel frame MTB is the best all rounder bike for me. Perfect for touring as you can fit heavy duty racks and panniers, plus mud guards and all the parts are easily replaceable not matter what country you are in.
I can fit large 26″ MTB tires which lets me ride it cross country and for gravel. And it makes the perfect commuter/pub bike, as I can sling on a heavy D lock and lock it up overnight without the fear of it getting nicked, and if it does it was a £35 bike.