Originally Posted by
nashcommguy
1) This is true.
2) This is not. Unless one is prepped to either spend a goodly amount on new components or can do one's own mechanical work. Not the least of which entails redishing the rear wheel if using the original comps. SlimRider and erg79 have the right idea.
I meant it's fairly simple compared to converting a more modern bike to single speed, since the older bike will have a screw-on freewheel, horizontal dropouts and separate brakes and shifters, all of which make conversion simpler, and which a modern bike most likely won't have. It does imply a degree of mechanical knowledge though.