Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - Conversion to fixed question

Have a mid 80's Cilo (lugged Columbus Allez Swiss frame) now with mustache bars. Want to convert the Shimano 600 drive train to fixed. Need something like a single 46 for the front. Any way to keep the current bottom bracket and do this? It is in good shape. Since I will be getting new wheels the rear is much less of an issue. I will keep the front and rear brakes and let the rear freewheel.

Also I normally ride a 170 mm crank arms. Heard that 165 is better for fixed bikes. Any truth to this?

TIA

i am also curious about 165 vs 170mm cranks - does that 5mm really make a difference?

i am also curious about 165 vs 170mm cranks - does that 5mm really make a difference?

Actually I had to go from 172.5 mm to 170 mm on my road bike based upon correct sizing and 2.5 mm made a big difference in reducing knee pain.

I read an article on Fixies that talked about 165 mm arms. Then again, maybe it was just one person's opinion.

also curious to hear about the 165 vs 170

maybe its for less pedal strike?

165 mm is Good!

We generally recommend 165 mm length cranks for road fixed-gear use. This shorter length makes it easier to spin faster cadences, and also reduces the risk of striking a pedal while cornering (with a fixed gear, where you have to pedal through the corners, this can be an issue.)

there you go

You can keep your Shimano bb and cranks. You should get a good chain line by mounting the chain ring on the inside of the spider with single stack (bmx) chain ring bolts.