Originally Posted by
noglider
You mention the 1x modifications in the context of "fixing" bikes. So what is the story? Do you get someone who says, "My front derailleur isn't working well?"
And do the mechanics "fix" it by removing it and the chainring?
The bikes that need "fixed" are ones that have been donated. Often times it's a simple tune up with some cable replacements, other times it's a complete rebuild from the ground up.
The ones that have been "fixed" with a 1x have had their working 2x or 3x setups removed to fit the 1x. (Ok, in one case the front shifter was problematic, but it's a VERY easy fix to repair that particular kind of shifter, and we could have done it in 10 minutes.)
Originally Posted by
lasauge
I would second the vote for giving the customers what they want: Do the people who get bikes from this coop need gears so they can lug heavy loads up steep hills? If yes, then leave the 3x on. Are the customers looking for simple bikes and don't need a wide range of gears? 1x is fine too.
That's the thing, we live in moderately hilly area. No huge hills or anything, but we NEVER know who will come in to buy our bikes. Sometimes a person is looking for a simple mountain bike to take on some jeep trails. Other times someone is looking for a commuter. We don't have the luxury to have different bikes in different sizes built for different people. We try to keep them stock (or used to) and let the customer do to them what they will.