Originally Posted by
skidder
A great cost-effective option for that MTB/roadie you want to convert to a utility/commuter bicycle. No need to put a costly set of shifters/brifters on one of those bicycles.
The old screw-on freewheel gear clusters were a PITA to remove, cassettes work much better!
I like QR wheel attachment systems, just easier to get on/off to fix a flat. Square Taper bottom brackets, rim brakes, cabled brake & shifting systems all work fine and are easy to maintain with a basic set of tools.
Ever have to remove a TANDEM freewheel? Luckily, I never have. But a friend had several instances where after several broken freewheel tools (using the proper technique too), he'd just disassemble the thing, get it down to the bare core and cut it off of the rear hub with a hacksaw and/or Dremel. Now THAT'S PITA freewheel removal!