Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - using rear derailleur for temp tension

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nikolajbaer
08-05-03, 04:51 PM
Hi,

until i either get the right cog/chainring combo or get a real tensioner, i am usin an old derailleur to tension. The only problem is that the derailleur bangs against the chainstay mercilessly (this is a freeride rig.. the banging happens when i do drops, stair gaps, descents etc, not normal flat riding (which i don't do much with on this rig)). Any suggestions on how to eliminate this bounce? Should i shorten the chain (the chain tension isn't too tight)?

Rev.Chuck
08-05-03, 07:56 PM
You can shorten the chain and also ziptie a wrap of innertube where the der hits. It will not stop the problem but will quiet it down.
jeremyk
09-05-04, 03:37 PM
I know I'm dredging up an old post, but you can fix the derailleur to the hanger by pulling out the spring surrounding the der. mounting bolt and replacing with a washer. Viola - no vertical movement.

Mr. Shadow
09-05-04, 06:10 PM
That is for a single-speed...correct?
Don't do that on a fixed-gear. They can't handle the back pedaling.
Jonny B
09-06-04, 11:42 AM
Take off the chain, and run it over the ring and cog, but not the derailer. Pull it as tight as you can, and rejoin it at the next possible link (ie make it as short as possible). If there's less then a half inch of play in the chain you should be ok just like that; if not you'll need to rethread it through the mech. You can remove the spring as Jeremy suggested, but it's not essential. Running the chain full-length is do-able, but running it shorter is always better (unless you're really cool and have a double chainset and shifter, for full-on two speed action :D )