Bicycle Mechanics - Chainrings - inside out and double singles

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alexbruck
07-23-09, 03:21 PM
Hi all and thanks to all for lots of help just from reading posts. This is my first time posting a Question.

I just got a Surly dingle cog (double fixed cog, 17/21) which I want to mate with 2 chainrings (38/42). Question: Since almost any 42 will have been designed to be mounted inside will it matter which way it faces? Can I use either singlespeed chainrings on either or both sides? And, if I am going to use a 9 speed chain as Surly suggests, I really have to still really worry about chainline?
Thanks in advance.

Gonzo Bob
07-23-09, 03:38 PM
Probably get a better response in the Single-speed & Fixed Gear forum...

Yeah, you can flip the 42 but it might look strange if it's a middle ring for a triple (with ramps and pickup pins facing out). I once flipped a 48 outer and ran 48x52 as an experiment.

I would think you would want single-speed rings since multi-speed rings may throw the chain easier.

Don't you always need to "worry" about chain-line for SS&FG? I would try to get it a close as possible.
tellyho
07-23-09, 05:25 PM
I'd get single speed specific rings, like Rocket, etc.

AEO
07-23-09, 07:20 PM
you can use the inside on the outside no problem, you just have to keep in mind some chainrings have a recessed bolt hole.

I would try and get the chainline as straight as possible.
if you decide to get single speed chainrings, be sure to get ones for 3/32 width.
z415
07-23-09, 07:41 PM
Rings designed for shifting are mostly specific so you can't use them inside out, but those that are not are fine.