Bicycle Mechanics - Turning a single speed cruiser into a three speed

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spaceboy
09-07-09, 11:41 PM
Hello,

I was wondering how I would go about turning a single speed cruiser into a three speed (if it's possible). Also, how much should I expect to spend if I do this? Thanks in advance.

tatfiend
09-08-09, 12:32 AM
It should only take a new rear wheel and chain. As you describe the bike as a cruiser I presume you will need a coaster brake hub version. Here is a link to a complete rear wheel listed on Amazon for about $91.50 including shipping.

http://www.amazon.com/Shimano-Nexus-speed-Wheel-Coaster/dp/B000C19206

If different overall gearing is wanted then the rear hub sprocket size can be easily changed. Installation might require changing dropout width which is not hard as long as the bike frame is steel.
tcs
09-08-09, 07:01 AM
It should only take a new rear wheel and chain...

...and a shifter! :)

A bigger project, if you're up to it, would be to source an older Sturmey hub and shifter off ebay and relace your rear rim.

Best,
tcs

tatfiend
09-08-09, 02:41 PM
tcs;

As pictured on Amazon the rear wheel I linked to appears to include the shifter.
spaceboy
09-09-09, 01:28 AM
Thanks for the input guys. I think I will go with the new rim as it is the easier way to go. I've never laced a wheel but I plan to learn it in the future. Now that I actually think about it, I think it's aesthetically more pleasing the have the single speed since it doesn't have any wires. I'll think about it for a while but I appreciate the quick help.
mike
09-09-09, 06:29 AM
It doesn't have to be such a big project. You don't need to re-lace the wheel. Simply changing out the wheels from a single speed to a three speed is easy. The only problem is the braking.

The easiest thing is to get a coaster brake three-speed hub wheel which are availble. Three-speeds add so much more to your riding pleasure - especially if you ride where there are even small hills.

If you enjoy riding an older single speed, go ahead and upgrade it. It is worth the expense and minimal effort.
tatfiend
09-09-09, 12:55 PM
My LBS is an Electra dealer, as well as other makes, and I note that virtually all of the Electra cruisers he orders are 3 speed versions. If you live in an area with any hills at all or windy conditions it is definitely worthwhile IMO.