Originally Posted by
Yanto
Thank you. I値l have to build up a tool kit for my bikes for sure. I have the basics, Allen keys, tyre levers, pedal spanner etc but none of the specialist tools.
As you can tell I知 new to this and know very little.
I知 still looking for a single speed bike or possibly a fixed gear with flip flop hub that can then be used as a single speed. But I値l probably be buying online, used and untried. I知 looking for a Fuji Feather or something similar.
My riding is done around a lake route 2kms in length and on smooth tarmac. There are a couple of slight climbs (nothing much and definitely nothing steep). I do 30kms every morning just for fitness/weight loss.
I currently have a Giant Escape RX hybrid and a Specialized MTB that I use in wet conditions.
I find I only use 2 gears on either bike, so thought a Singlespeed might be a viable option for me, assuming I can find the right gear for my needs so that I can get up the rises and not spin out on the flat.
I thought about a fixed gear but I知 not sure I can adjust to riding one!
Most singlespeeds aren't actually sold as fixies, things like the feather can be a slight exception in that it comes fixed gear, but is still sold with a front brake at least and possibly both brakes, has brake compatible rims and most come with a flip flop hub. Only dedicated track bikes come with fixie only hubs and no brake tracks or brake mounting holes. The felt tk2 for example, which was a particularly common track bike in the 1700-2000 dollar range, came with flip flop hub, rim brake style rims, and brake mounting holes front and rear. So it shouldn't be hard to find something.
As for the tools, especially with SS/Fixies, getting the tools can save you some hassles in the long term. Park is great, and probably most common for chain whip, lock ring tools, and freewheel removers. But you don't need to pay their price for everything. Their cable cutter is nice but over priced for what is a wire cable rope cutter, places like farm and tractor will sell you the same tool but half the cost. Mine is made in Japan and was half the price, just watch for the ones that are exactly like the pedros brand, the handle squeezes close enough to pinch the skin on your palm.