Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - How often do you replace your freewheel?

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cooleric1234
03-13-09, 07:01 PM
I bought a single speed bike recently for my commute, mostly just to cut down on maintenance and upkeep. However, I was just reading something that implies freewheels have to be changed out quite frequently. So, how many miles before you generally have to change yours?

I know there are other variables at play. First, do you have a White Industries ENO Freewheel or not? Second, what kind of conditions do you normally use it in (rain, snow, etc.)? Third, do you do regular maintenance like lubing?


Critical Jeff
03-13-09, 07:20 PM
over 9000

gospastic
03-13-09, 09:25 PM
i have a white industries freewheel and it looks as new as the day i got it (about 6 months ago).


lonesomesteve
03-13-09, 11:15 PM
The freewheel currently on my single speed is a cheapy ACS. It has about 2,000 miles on it. This is on my commuter which I ride five days a week, all winter in Seattle where it never stops raining. It seems to be as good as new (which is to say it's making the same ugly clunky sounds it's always made). I'm guessing it's good for at least a couple thousand more miles.

sp00ki
03-13-09, 11:22 PM
if you can put a billion miles on a cassette hub, why not a singlespeed freewheel? isn't it similar rachet tech?

i don't ride a ss fw, but i'm curious...

Lion Steve
03-14-09, 06:25 AM
I'm getting ready to put a Shamano freewheel on my first SS conversion. Just how important is the proper chainline in relation to the freewheel's life span?