Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - Chain Width Question

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scrambledwonder
10-28-06, 07:50 PM
Hello Everyone,

Like everybody, I'm building a single speed. I'm using a Formula flip/flop hub, ACS or Shimano BMX freewheel and a Sugino RD crankset. What width chain should I use, 1/8 or 3/32? Does it really matter?

Thanks!

-Dustin

potus
10-28-06, 07:53 PM
if your cog or chainwheel are both 3/32", use a 3/32" chain, if either or both are 1/8", you have to use a 1/8" chain
brunning
10-28-06, 08:01 PM
http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=240013

wildbird
10-28-06, 10:13 PM
the real question though is - isd 1/8 better than 3/32 - one recognized authority (SB) claims that the 3/32s are just as good and quieter, and possibly better designed, considering they have to absorb the "spread" of a 8, 9, or 10 speed hub. Goood points, but has anyone ever compared sidewall width and bearing strength of a good 3/32 vs. a good 1/8 chain?

Also - any direct experience?

Thanks
Aeroplane
10-29-06, 04:42 AM
the real question though is - isd 1/8 better than 3/32 - one recognized authority (SB) claims that the 3/32s are just as good and quieter, and possibly better designed, considering they have to absorb the "spread" of a 8, 9, or 10 speed hub. Goood points, but has anyone ever compared sidewall width and bearing strength of a good 3/32 vs. a good 1/8 chain?
Nobody cares. Any difference in strength, bushing durability, etc. will vary more between manufacturers that between different sizes.

The occurrence of a decent chain snapping for no reason is ridiculously rare. Just buy a chain that fits and use it.

experience - nobody here rides bikes, so no.
LóFarkas
10-29-06, 04:47 AM
Whichever you can get cheaper/closer/faster. If you're a weight weenie, get 3/32, if you like the beefy look, get 1/8. Availability of decent quality cheap chains could be a factor, too.
scrambledwonder
10-29-06, 12:49 PM
Whichever you can get cheaper/closer/faster. If you're a weight weenie, get 3/32, if you like the beefy look, get 1/8. Availability of decent quality cheap chains could be a factor, too.

Both freewheel cog and chain ring are skinny, so it looks like 3/32!

Thanks!

-Dustin