Bicycle Mechanics - Can you add gears to a single speed folding bike?

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swilson6988
10-12-11, 10:17 PM
I live in NYC but where I live there's lots of hills. I use the bike to exercise my dogs, but trying to get up a hill is impossible without getting off. I'm not ready to sell my bike yet, so is it possible to make a single speed into a 6 speed?

BTW: It's a Schwinn folding bike

Jeff Wills
10-12-11, 10:21 PM
Anything is possible, but it depends on exactly what you have now. Perhaps the easiest would be to convert it to a 3-speed with an internal hub gear. That requires a minimum of unusual modifications- all you need to do is replace the rear hub or rear wheel and run the shifter cable. Easy enough for a halfway-decent bike shop.
oldroads
10-13-11, 06:22 AM
Ditto on the 3-speed wheel. You might even be able to find a cheap used 20” wheel from an older musclebike (assuming your folder has 20” wheels).
Changing the cog will enable you to find the right range for hills and level riding.

zukahn1
10-13-11, 09:26 AM
I have to agree that a 3 speed IGH is your best option. If you shop around you sould be able to find new or used wheel in your bikes size. If you want to spend a little more money there are even some 5spd IGH on the market new that should work on your bike.

As for the 6 speed derailer that just is not a very good option for a folding single speed bike but it is possible.
swilson6988
10-17-11, 01:01 PM
I have to agree that a 3 speed IGH is your best option. If you shop around you sould be able to find new or used wheel in your bikes size. If you want to spend a little more money there are even some 5spd IGH on the market new that should work on your bike.

As for the 6 speed derailer that just is not a very good option for a folding single speed bike but it is possible.

Thanks everyone. You guys are the best! I'll do what's recommended:D
kandyredcoi
10-17-11, 01:07 PM
another vote for IGH...it just looks sooooo much cleaner
tcs
10-17-11, 01:14 PM
The best answer I can give you is...the one I gave you three days ago on your other thread (http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php/774977-Can-you-add-gears-to-a-single-speed-folding-bike). Post #8.

You're welcome. :)
swilson6988
10-24-11, 03:48 PM
The best answer I can give you is...the one I gave you three days ago on your other thread (http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php/774977-Can-you-add-gears-to-a-single-speed-folding-bike). Post #8.

You're welcome. :)

Dude you're the absolute best