Turning a single speed cruiser into a three speed
09-07-09, 11:41 PM
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Turning a single speed cruiser into a three speed
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.
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.
09-08-09, 12:32 AM
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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.
https://www.amazon.com/Shimano-Nexus-.../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.
https://www.amazon.com/Shimano-Nexus-.../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.
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09-08-09, 07:01 AM
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09-08-09, 02:41 PM
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tcs;
As pictured on Amazon the rear wheel I linked to appears to include the shifter.
As pictured on Amazon the rear wheel I linked to appears to include the shifter.
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Gear Hubs Owned: Rohloff disc brake, SRAM iM9 disc brake, SRAM P5 freewheel, Sachs Torpedo 3 speed freewheel, NuVinci CVT, Shimano Alfine SG S-501, Sturmey Archer S5-2 Alloy. Other: 83 Colnago Super Record, Univega Via De Oro
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Gear Hubs Owned: Rohloff disc brake, SRAM iM9 disc brake, SRAM P5 freewheel, Sachs Torpedo 3 speed freewheel, NuVinci CVT, Shimano Alfine SG S-501, Sturmey Archer S5-2 Alloy. Other: 83 Colnago Super Record, Univega Via De Oro
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09-09-09, 01:28 AM
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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.
09-09-09, 06:29 AM
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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.
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.
09-09-09, 12:55 PM
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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.
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Gear Hubs Owned: Rohloff disc brake, SRAM iM9 disc brake, SRAM P5 freewheel, Sachs Torpedo 3 speed freewheel, NuVinci CVT, Shimano Alfine SG S-501, Sturmey Archer S5-2 Alloy. Other: 83 Colnago Super Record, Univega Via De Oro
Visit and join the Yahoo Geared Hub Bikes group for support and links.
https://groups.yahoo.com/group/Geared_hub_bikes/
Gear Hubs Owned: Rohloff disc brake, SRAM iM9 disc brake, SRAM P5 freewheel, Sachs Torpedo 3 speed freewheel, NuVinci CVT, Shimano Alfine SG S-501, Sturmey Archer S5-2 Alloy. Other: 83 Colnago Super Record, Univega Via De Oro
Visit and join the Yahoo Geared Hub Bikes group for support and links.
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