Originally Posted by
rpenmanparker
Because of the inflated weight of the commonly used, cheap steel frames; cranks; wide, heavy chains; and basic, 36-spoke wheels, most SSs will be much heavier than an entry level multi-geared bike. That is despite the absence of derailleurs, cassette, etc. The only way to get a SS bike to be lighter would be to custom build it from specially selected frame and parts. That SS bikes are lighter is largely a myth unless you are comparing to a extremely low end geared bike.
For city riding, the weight is not that much of an issue - IMO, most people find ss simple and cheap.
However, if comparing a multi gear with a ss bike - if using the same frame, the ss will be lighter for the weight of:
cassette (minus one cog)
extra front chainring (and the spider)
derailleurs
shifters
That adds up to a kilogram, unless going for really high end stuff, doesn't it?
Oh, I forgot - SS usually has shorter chain as well, so in spite of it being a bit wider (heavier) per link, it ends up being the same weight, if not lighter than a multi speed one.
