Folding Bikes - Singlespeed Swift?

I was hoping someone could clear some things up for me. If I understand it correctly, Xootrs are aluminium and only come in one configuration, whereas Swifts are steel can be build up to your own specs (e.g. singlespeed etc..) I am right so far?

Basically I would like a singlespeed aluminium Xootr/Swift, but to do this i would need to buy the Xootr with all the gears and convert it myself? Does anyone know if i can buy an alu singlespeed direct from a shop?

Thanks

Both sources of custom Swifts are out of the steel frames (for now..) So you're in luck - all you can get is alu these days ;-)

Your best bet is contacting Peter Reich at 1-800-884-5541 (or check other contact details here (http://www.swiftfolder.com/contact.html)). I'm sure he'd be happy to build you a singlespeed Swift, though he's a busy man and it will probably take 4-6 weeks.

I bought a single-speed rear wheel from Peter a few months back for less than $60. It's essentially a converted stock rear wheel with spacers and a single cog, and a solid axle with track nuts.

So james_swift....

• Do you need a chain tensioner?
• Is it fairly easy to swap back and forth between single and derailleur? That is, for those of us who don't routinely put drop bars on bikes by ourselves ;)

For track ends, you'll probably want a hub gear. Chain tensioners are also a good idea.

Thanks for your quick replies, I'll send Peter an email. Any idea how much a singlespeed version costs?

So james_swift....

• Do you need a chain tensioner?
• Is it fairly easy to swap back and forth between single and derailleur? That is, for those of us who don't routinely put drop bars on bikes by ourselves ;)

No chain tensioner needed, so long as you shorten the chain.

Swapping setups is not that difficult, if you have 2 rear wheels (one single, and the other stock). It's just a matter of having a correct-length chain, reinstalling your derailleur hanger and derailleur, cable and shifter, and your rear wheel.