Conversion to fixed/free
 

Hey, I'm just starting to get into biking and do not know much at all. I have done some research into fixed/free conversions and it sounds like something I would like to do. I picked up an old 10 speed road bike that somebody was throwing out, but I do not have the slightest clue on how to convert it.

You can try this to start with http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...a-single-speed

What kind of old 10spd? Is the frame worth putting alot of work and new parts into?

When you say fixie/free conversion do you mean a fixed gear and single speed on the same hub? The the first thing you need is new wheels. That opens questions about dropout spacing and brake reach.

An that is just for starters. Any pics of the bike in question?

Unless your frame has horizontal (or nearly so) dropouts a fixed gear conversion will be extremely problematic. A single speed with a freewheel will be easier but will need some kind of chain tensioner, assuming you lack horizontal dropouts.

I just took a few pics, but apparently the file size it too large to upload. Its an old sears and roebuck bike, its probably only worth what I could scrap it for, but I want a fun little project. I do want a single hub and the dropout is not horizontal.

http://www.sheldonbrown.com/images/dropf-nohang.gifthis is what the dropout looks like

Remove shifters, derailers, and the cables/housings for them. Leave the brakes. Unless you want to learn to redish a wheel, you now need a new Rear wheel track (probably 120 OLD spacing), and then to decide if you want flip flop (ability to put fixed gear on one side, single speed freewheel on the other) the gears, and probably the chain. Do you have spare parts/tools etc?

You can make it into a single speed while keeping all the freewheel cogs - just pick which front and rear combo you want and take off front and rear derailleurs and adjust the chain. It'll look stupid but it's just a Free Spirit so what the hell?

I missed the free spirit part, so I move to +1 for this solution.

It actually doesn't look that bad.

Free Spirits rule!!!

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8498/8...30d73b3c_o.jpg
Free Spirit Sunbird by Lester.L., on Flickr