Originally Posted by
wolfchild
The biggest problem with derailleur bikes is that all newer bikes have those flimsy little aluminium derailleur hangers which break very easily. When your hanger breaks you're not going anywhere, and forget about trying to find "magic gear ratio " after your breakdown because it's not easy...Choose a frame with horizontal drop outs, that way it's easy to set up as singlespeed.
Correct me if I'm wrong but I believe those new hangers are purposely designed to break under stress to prevent worse damage.