Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - fix old 26" cruiser??

I just read the POS frame thread. I have been pondering the idea of fixing a couple of old 26" cruisers (big American bb like the little indy 500 bikes) and using 700c wheels. I think they'll fit. Is this one of those things that I will only be glad I did because of the lesson learned, or could it be a sweet strange venture? I could maybe just use the parts on different bikes later if it turns sour. Any thoughts? Feel free to tell me I am stupid if that's the case. :o

could I use bmx bb, spindle, etc.? Do bmx bikes still use those big bb's like they did not long ago?

Do it. Should be a fun project.

Not sure about your BB question though, check Sheldon Brown's site, he probably has some info.

Yeah, a BMX bottom bracket/spindle should work.

I used a 1pc crank/bottom bracket off of a Haro on my Schwinn Traveler.

It all depends on what you want to do I suppose. I've come to realize that you can't polish a turd, it'll still be a turd when you're done. So if they are decent frames and you really honestly like them, and want to resurrect them as a fixie, then go for it. From what I undersand, the 1 piece cranks that have the huge BB shell are fine and can be used without problem, if that's all you've got. If you want to use a modern setup, then there are converters that'll go inside the big BB shell and give you a new shell to put a standard english bottom bracket in. But as long as the chainline is OK, use whatever bottom bracket/crankset you want. There's no harm in it.

Disclaimer: Have never worked on a 1 piece crankset before, although I have a few in my garage I have never worked on them. I have been doing LOTS of reading on bottom brackets and cranksets lately, and I do believe my information is accurate.

If you got the parts, I say do it.

American sized 3pc BBs are available here (http://biketoolsetc.com/index.cgi?id=326797227558&c=Components&sc=Bottom%20Brackets&tc=Conversion%20Kit) fairly cheap. Some places also sell these adapters to use a Euro sized BB in a American sized BB shell. But they were pricey last time i saw them.

But if you got a working 1pc, just use it. They're really cheap and easy to maintain.

What's wrong with a coaster brake? If the old cruiser came with a cb don't see any point in fixing it.

thank you all for the good input! shecky, nice link. I am always glad to see another source for good parts

[/QUOTE]What's wrong with a coaster brake? If the old cruiser came with a cb don't see any point in fixing it.[QUOTE]

kurremkarm- I mainly want to put some lighter, faster wheels on, and I'd rather have the responsive, connected feeling of fixed