Originally Posted by
ofajen
My first brief dabble with SS was in the ‘70s. I got a new Azuki “10 speed” in 1975, a 23” frame. In a a couple years it seemed small and I got a nicer 25” frame. I turned the Azuki into a single speed. I only used it on shorter, around town rides and eventually I gave it away.
I didn’t get back to single speed until about five years ago. Since then, I’ve had two bikes, a road frame and an MTB frame and both have been set up single speed for more than three of those years.
I’ve put gears back on briefly for two intervals, but riding an actual single speed just seems to make me happier.
One thing I’ve gone back and forth on is gearing. Lots of time as 42/16, but sometimes I switch to 42/17. I tend to prefer to push a little harder than some, but I started running regularly again a year ago. I seem to manage the overall load of cycling and running if I use the 42/17. Also, when the leaves drop, the wind is more of a challenge on windy rides and the lower 65 inch gear is easier to stay on top of.
Otto
I highly recommend the white industries dos eno dual freewheel, for on the road manual gearing changes. You do have to convert from track 1/8” to 3/32” chainring and chain, but it’s great. I have the 17/19 and 20/22 tooth combos. Important to size the chain just right, so it will cover either rear wheel cog in the dropout space available. And locate the rear rim brake pads vertically just right for both cogs. With a 50t upfront and 17/19, I have either 79 or 70 gear inches available on my ride.
For a recent 50 mile club ride, used 47x17 for the first 20 mile flattish section, and swapped over to the 47x19 at a regroup for the next 20 mile hilly section, but eventually got dropped by the group. Can only go so far keeping up with the geared up, fully kitted and aero bunch :/ Save the 42t up front, for the mountains and major hill climbs.