1/8" vs. 3/32" for fixed applications
03-11-08, 12:54 AM
#51
manwench
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Maybe I'm totally wrong here, but why is there such grief with the derailment issue? Do you guys not know how to remove slack from your chain? All I ever buy for work bikes is w/e SRAM currently calls their 8spd chain. Derailleurs apply side load to move the chain from the bottom that's why they work. Your chain will pop off when you use them on your conversion because: A) you have reused old WORN chainrings, B) your chain is slack or C) your chainline needs adjustment. Sam
03-11-08, 05:53 AM
#52
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I am not sure I buy the idea that multi-speed chains will be thrown easily on a single speed, either. I ride a road bike most of the time. Even with a triple, with the chain running at a very steep angle, and much more slack in the system than you would have on a single speed it is not as if I am always having the chain derail when I don't want it to. In fact, I don't think it has ever happened unless the gears were badly out of alignment causing some skip.
03-11-08, 09:11 AM
#53
Just ride it.
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I am not sure I buy the idea that multi-speed chains will be thrown easily on a single speed, either. I ride a road bike most of the time. Even with a triple, with the chain running at a very steep angle, and much more slack in the system than you would have on a single speed it is not as if I am always having the chain derail when I don't want it to. In fact, I don't think it has ever happened unless the gears were badly out of alignment causing some skip.
Agreed. With a straight chain line and proper tension, a multi-speed chain shouldn't be thrown.
However, the notion that a multi-speed chain is some how better than a single speed chain; for a single speed application is simply false. I can see how this confusion could occur given the scarcity of good single speed chains in the 3/32 variety. In fact, most bike shop workers will look at you like you have 10 heads when you ask them for a 3/32 single speed specific chain.
I am lucky enough to live near (well, kinda near) Business Cycle in Miami, who specializes in high performance road and fixed gear bicycles. The owner John is a fountain of knowledge. He carries the right chain for this application. He does mail order on his website too.
