zippy753

I recently picked up an old Soma Generation frame and fork - it looks like it was a low end bike, probably late 70's or early 80's, but the paint looks surprisingly nice with the chrome forks it came with and the badge is kind of cool. I'm pulling parts from a Centurion LeMans RS 12-speed that got bent out of shape.

I want to make this bike 1x6, and make a thumb shifter on the handlebars, but the problem is that the Soma frame doesn't have a rear derailleur hanger. I researched my options and came up with the following:

1) Get a derailleur adapter claw and hang the SunTour Cyclone from my Centurion. I'm not sure if this will work properly but seems like the simplest solution.

2) Buy a newer Shimano Tourney with direct mount. Not sure if it's better because it's modern or if it's plasticky and meant for super low-end department store bikes and will need constant adjustment.

3) Buy a vintage derailleur with direct mount. Keeps with the theme and it appears there are plenty around for about the same price as above.

Are any of these options clearly better? Would one of these not work for any reason or is there an option I'm missing?

A related question: will I need a guard for the front gear if I remove a chainring to go 1x6 and there's no front derailleur keeping it in place?

Thanks in advance!

bikeman715

I would go with # 1 myself . That way you can use any derailleur you want . You shouldn't need a guard for the front .

zippy753

Good point, and I'd like to use the parts I have on hand. Thanks for confirming I won't need a guard.

I think I'm set, cheers!

poonkorama

I just set up an old Univega steel frame as a 1 x 6, and I used a new Tourney 6/7 speed direct-mount rear derailleur. Seems to be working fine so far. But you are correct, it is plasticky looking and doesn't quite fit the aesthetic of the old frame. The Suntour mech might match your frame a little better. I only went with the Tourney because, for less than $15, the price was right for a commuter rig. I try to spend as little as possible on that one