Originally Posted by
chi-james
remove dérailleurs and cables, shorten chain to fit desired gear combination... et voila single speed, no cash. If you like it, try replacing the gear cluster (if it's possible with your rear hub) with a freewheel (prices vary), redish the wheel, buy single stack bolts for the chainring (prices vary) now it also "looks" like an "authentic" single speed.
I think the heaviest part of your bike is probably the wheels, or really the frame, but who cares?
Sell your 610, for about 150$ on CL. Save up to get a comparatively sub-par (but pre-built) single speed bike from one of the many online sources now available for around 300-400$.
unfortunately, i'm in Vancouver, CA where single speeds (good ones) start at CAD650. but i could probably get CAD200 for my Miyata. because of the age of the bike, i'm told the switching out of parts may be tricky, therefore driving the cost up. i'll take it to a bike shop and get an estimate since i know which gear i want.