Originally Posted by
Revracer
I am new to the fixed gear crowd at a young 46, but it sure sounded like fun so I took a Miyata 110 I had picked up and installed a fixed/freewheel wheel in the rear, shortened the chain and took of the shifters and derailleurs. I decided to run 42/16 with 3/32" gear/chain because I thought it would work with the rolling hills terrain in Eastern PA. I have logged about 60 miles thus far and commuted twice. I might not be a purist as I have brakes and SPD pedals, but they are keepers for me in this terrain. I need to get the shorter chain ring bolts (or washers) and get rid of the large ring. I should also look at re-spacing the rear wheel just a bit to get the rear brake in better alignment, but the chain line seems good (within 1mm) so I can live with the seldom used rear brake alignment.
Here is a photo from this morning's ride. Reflectors may go. Although I have liked having the "safety" levers while learning this new ride, I don't see much value in the drops just yet and I hope to replace the bar with a wider model and brake levers with hoods.
Awesome weather here this week with temps in mid 40F range for the AM and 60F+ in the afternoon. Fall color is starting which is an added bonus.
Good start. I started the same as you, just took the junk off my Europa and went from there. It took about three years to get her 'fully' converted. Just do things as you like/want/afford.
While taking off the big ring does clean things up, some people grind the teeth off (a dud) and turn it into a chain guard.
Even if you don't use your drop bars very often, they are your head wind gear - cop a head wind and just go onto the drops (worth a gear or two on a geared bike).
Let the old girl evolve as she wishes. There's nothing 'purist' about having brakes, it's just stoopid and to be honest, I still like having a rear brake as well, just gives you more options for subtle control of your bike.
The reflectors on the other hand