Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - Starting in a WHOLE new world

Bikeforums.net is a forum about nothing but bikes. Our community can help you find information about hard-to-find and localized information like bicycle tours, specialties like where in your area to have your recumbent bike serviced, or what are the best bicycle tires and seats for the activities you use your bike for.



PDA

View Full Version : Starting in a WHOLE new world

Arsbars
12-26-03, 07:52 PM
So after buying a new frame for the spring to race on.. and I've decided to turn it into a SS.

I have rode fixed since the spring, but don't know ANYTHING about SS, other than chainline. So where do I begin??

The frame is the Orbea Lanza with vertical dropouts.

What hubs/cranks should I look at??

pitboss
12-28-03, 06:42 PM
Hubs-BMX spaced right (if possible), or Suzue flipflops. Good for the money if you treat them well. They are better for freewheels than cogs from my experience. I like mine mated to MA3s...
Cranks-whatever size is comfortable. I run 165s b/c I like tight cornering; Chicago is relatively flat to boot. If it were hilly, I might consider 170s. I got a set of used 165 Bianchi knock offs on ebay for $20 a while back.
Freewheel-ACS claws are good, but the shimanos run more silently (if you are one of those stealth creeps - :) ). I have had a few pawl engagement issues with shimano in the past, and this was on 2 newer freewheels. Never a prob with ACS.
Other parts-anything that works and feels right. As with the rest of your parts selection. You will need a chain tensioning device, like a Paul Melvin or Surly Singulator. DO NOT get a cheap-assed chainstay version.
Arsbars
12-28-03, 07:39 PM
165,

Have you ever heard of the White Industries Eno Eccentric rear hub?

Any comments on that anyone?

pitboss
12-28-03, 08:09 PM
Call me frugal...I have but not enough to deem it good or bad. Looks like an option, if you can afford it.
markw
12-28-03, 09:14 PM
I think sheldon brown's site had an article on it. Use either that hub, or one of those chain tensioners that go where the derailleur went. Vertical dropouts limit your options.
naisme
12-30-03, 01:45 AM
Hell, Phil Woods in an option if you can afford it.
Fortunately I was able to build my SS out of an old Cannondale frame with vert drops using an old Shimano crank, with a 53 ring, and tore apart an old cassette and reassmebled it with the 17t cog in the chain line, and the spacers, along with a few I purchased at the LBS. I wasn't sure I was gong to enjoy SS, but after some amazing rides on it, I love it and look forward to getting out on it this summer. I didn't need to get a chain tensioner as this setup just worked from the start.